Raleigh, NC (WNCN) – Shawntrice Andrews, daughter of Cynthia McQueen, former Principal and CEO of Torchlight Academy Charter School, was arrested Thursday and charged with fraud following a five-year investigation into alleged financial misconduct.
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Allegations and Charges
Andrews, 42, is accused of defrauding the U.S. Department of Education of nearly $9,350.50 by falsifying documents on behalf of Torchlight Academy to secure federal funding. She is also alleged to have attempted to defraud an additional $4,800.62 using the same method.
The investigation, which began in 2020, was led by the U.S. Department of Education. After years of evidence gathering, the case was handed to the Wake County District Attorney’s Office in late August 2025, culminating in Andrews’ arrest in October.
Wake County District Attorney Laurin Freeman noted that the process took considerable time due to the complexity of the case and the need for a thorough investigation, saying, “It’s not clear why it took them so long to complete this particular case,” highlighting the meticulous work required before legal proceedings could move forward.
Court Appearance and Bail
Following her arrest, Shawntrice Andrews was released on a written promise to appear in court Friday afternoon. No bail had been set at the time.
Context: Torchlight Academy Closure
These allegations follow the closure of Torchlight Academy Charter School in 2022, which revealed serious management violations, including financial irregularities, falsified documents, and conflicts of interest. Andrews, a longtime teacher at the school, had served in the education sector for over two decades.
Her mother, Cynthia McQueen, who also served as the school’s principal and CEO, spoke briefly to CBS17 but declined further comment, emphasizing that the family had yet to consult with their attorney. McQueen insisted on her daughter’s innocence, stating, “She didn’t do anything, that’s for sure.”
Moving Forward
As the legal process continues, Andrews faces serious charges that could carry significant consequences if proven guilty. The community continues to watch the investigation closely, awaiting more details as the case unfolds.
This story may be updated as more information becomes available.