FARMINGTON, Mich. – A cheerleading coach at Famington High School has been charged with stealing the team's money -- more than $9,000.
Kandice Hernandez, 25, has been arraigned on larceny charges. She was the district's "coach of the year" after the team went to regionals. She was in charge of the varsity, junior varsity and middle school squads. All of the money the teams raised from a fundraiser is gone.
Alexis Wood was excited about her senior year on the cheerleading team until she found out her coach was accused of stealing the club's money.
"She didn't need to take from us, the stuff we worked our butts off all summer for," said Wood.
Police say Hernandez used the more than $9,000 to pay for plane tickets, her personal bills and more. Many on her varsity squad were hoping it would go to new mats and uniforms.
"We were just looking forward to it so much and getting all of this new spirit wear, but then all of it was taken away from us, which was really disappointing," said junior Sarah Cooper.
Farmington Public Schools told Local 4 Hernandez never was an employee of the district. However, the district confirmed she is no longer the cheer coach.
If she is in fact guilty, much of her former team would like her to lose more than her position.
"Just so angry. I think she should go to jail, but I really just want the money. I want it back so we can just move on from this," said sophomore Shania Henderson.
Hernandez will be in court on Friday. Many of the girls on the squad will be there, too.
Hernandez declined to comment when Local 4 reached out to her on Thursday.
As for the squad's funds, they have a cash wash fundraiser coming up. Moreover, a parent has set up a GoFundMe page called "Farmington Cheer." They're trying to raise at least $5,000.