TAOS — A newly released forensic audit report details allegations of corruption and financial wrongdoing at Taos Municipal Schools that could lead to criminal charges.

The 417-page report, redacted to protect whistleblowers and students' identities, was released to The Taos News early Friday evening.

The audit found the district became aware in July 2022 of allegations staff and outside contractors engaged in a kickback scheme involving procurement fraud, bribes and conflicts of interest.

From Jan. 1, 2017, to Oct. 13, 2022, former Facilities and Maintenance Director Robert Valencia received $244.1 million in “personal and family financial compensation,” primarily through subcontracts from vendors doing business with the district, the report alleges. Valencia was also the district’s w

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