EX-DRUG ABUSE OFFICIAL ACCUSED OF TAKING FUNDS

COLUMBIA-A former program director at the state's drug abuse agency was
charged Friday with embezzlement, forgery, conspiracy and obstruction of
justice, the State Law Enforcement Division said.

Katherine "Kathy" Yandle, 36, was arrested as the result of an ongoing SLED
investigation. Yandle has been charged with embezzling $48,789 by
submitting fraudulent invoices and purchase orders, arrest warrants showed.
She also is charged with hindering the ongoing investigation of the
Department of Alcohol and Other Drug Abuse Services by telling witnesses to
lie to SLED agents. Yandle also is charged with conspiracy.

Agency Director Wendell Price said he is "not aware that (the
investigation) targets any other employee at DAODAS."

Yandle coordinated the Bridge Program, which helped youths make the
transition from inpatient alcohol or drug abuse treatment facilities back
to communities, Price said. "When we became aware of the irregularities
April 17, we contacted SLED," Price said.

Yandle was suspended and resigned May 1.