Dorchester District 2 employee charged with embezzlement following investigation

ST. GEORGE, SC (WCSC) – The Dorchester County Sheriff’s Office has arrested a Dorchester County Second School District employee in connection with a breach of trust investigation.

Gemini Dempsey Cope, 58, of Summerville, is accused of embezzling more than $10,000 from the county, Lt. Rick Carson said.

Deputies say Cope was working as a financial secretary for facilities at the time of the embezzlement and through her position in the district, had access to a Lowe’s blanket contract.

According to investigators, she used this position to obtain merchandise and gift cards.

Cope has been employed in the district for about 13 years.

The Sheriff’s Office was made aware of the incident on May 22, 2024, following an internal review by the school district.

“To date, Dorchester County investigators have confirmed that the damage to the school district since January of this year exceeds $10,000,” Carson said. “In addition to reviewing and investigating, investigators have also secured evidence to support the allegations. The investigation is currently ongoing.”

Cope is scheduled to appear at a bail hearing Thursday afternoon. A mug shot of him was not immediately available on the Dorchester County Jail website.

District spokeswoman Jennifer Passmore issued a brief statement following the arrest:

Dorchester School District 2 is aware that the Dorchester County Sheriff’s Office has arrested former employee Gemini Cope in connection with the embezzlement of more than $10,000 from the district since January 2024.

The Sheriff’s Office was made aware of the incident on May 22, 2024, following an internal review conducted by the county.

The District appreciates the quick response and support of our law enforcement partners.

The MPs say their investigations are still ongoing.

This is a developing story. Check back later for updates.

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