EX Head of Hopi Mission School Sentenced For Embezzlement

This week, Thane Epefanio, 45, of Avondale, was sentenced to two years in prison for embezzling money from the Hopi Mission School located on the Hopi Reservation in Kykotsmovi, Ariz.  Epefanio had previously pleaded guilty to money laundering and wire fraud.

Epefanio served as the Superintendent and Administrator of the Hopi Mission School, a private, charitable school funded primarily with donations and through participation in government programs.  Beginning in 2012, Epefanio used his position and influence to embezzle school funds and also directed staff to provide him money to create the appearance that the funds were being used to operate the school.  Epefanio obtained almost $1 million to support his gambling habit and to pay for personal expenses.