A former executive of the Thames Valley District School Board has been indicted for mail theft. Linda Nicholls, aged 57, faces one criminal charge in connection with this matter. She served as the associate director of the Ontario school board before resigning in March 2025.
Details of the Mail Theft Charges
According to police reports, the alleged incidents occurred between July 22 and August 9, 2024. An employee responsible for sorting incoming mail observed several envelopes from Canada Post, all displaying similar handwriting and addressed to different staff members.
The employee brought this to Nicholls’ attention, who was their supervisor at the time. It is claimed that Nicholls instructed the employee to open one of the envelopes that was not meant for them. This envelope contained anonymous allegations concerning misconduct, implicating Nicholls and other school board officials.
Allegations and Internal Investigation
- Nicholls allegedly directed the employee to shred the opened envelope.
- She instructed them to keep the other unopened letters.
- When the staff returned after the summer break, Nicholls told the employee to distribute the remaining letters.
In October 2024, following Nicholls’ leave, an internal investigation revealed that one of the letters had been stolen over the summer. This was subsequently reported to the London police in July 2025.
Background of the Case
Nicholls’ departure from the Thames Valley District School Board occurred amidst a significant spending scandal. Reports indicated that top executives, including Nicholls, had attended a retreat in Toronto despite ongoing financial turmoil within the board. This scandal resulted in the resignation of education director Mark Fisher and led to provincial oversight of the school board.
Linda Nicholls is scheduled to appear in London court this November. The school board has refrained from commenting on the ongoing legal matters, emphasizing their commitment to accountability and public trust.
During her tenure, Nicholls received substantial compensation, earning $250,000 in 2024 and $260,000 in 2023 according to public salary disclosure documents.
