Following a three-month investigation, detectives from the Special Investigations Unit have charged a Fairfax County Public Schools basketball coach with Embezzlement. 

In July of 2023, detectives launched an investigation after receiving information from the Human Resources Section of FCPS of potential misappropriation of funds by an employee at James Madison High School. Detectives conducted an extensive inquiry into the matter. As evidence began to accumulate and interviews were conducted, it was found that Drew Smerdzinski, 33, of Herndon, an FCPS employee, embezzled money from a school event, according to police. Detectives obtained a warrant for Smerdzinski on Oct. 4 and he turned himself in to the Fairfax Police Department on Oct. 5.  He has been charged with Felony Embezzlement and released on an unsecured bond. Smerdzinski has been suspended from his position following the arrest.

We are asking anyone with information regarding this case to call the Major Crimes Bureau at 703-246-7800, option 1. Tips can also be submitted anonymously through Crime Solvers by phone – 1-866-411-TIPS