Superintendent and Food Services Director accused of driving under the influence and possessing marijuana near school, shaking community trust.
Fitzgerald Superintendent, Food Services Director Arraigned on Drug and DUI Charges
Two senior administrators from Fitzgerald Public Schools—Superintendent Hollie Lyn Stange and Food Services Director Amanda Gail Carroll—were arraigned Monday, December 23, 2024, on multiple charges including marijuana possession on school grounds and operating a motor vehicle while intoxicated. The arrests have sent shockwaves through the Macomb County community.
The charges stem from an incident on December 20, 2024, where both women were allegedly smoking marijuana in a vehicle near the intersection of 9 Mile Rd. and Ryan Rd., within 1,000 feet of school property. Police stopped the women separately after they left the scene, with evidence suggesting both were under the influence. Officers also recovered a weapon in Stange’s vehicle.
Detailed Charges and Legal Proceedings
Hollie Lyn Stange, 38, faces the following charges:
- Possession of Marijuana on School Grounds, a two-year high court misdemeanor.
- Possession of a Weapon in a Weapon-Free Zone, a 93-day misdemeanor.
- Operating a Motor Vehicle While Intoxicated, a 93-day misdemeanor.
During her arraignment in Warren District Court, visiting Judge David Draper set Stange’s bond at $5,000 cash/surety, which was posted over the weekend. Bond conditions prohibit her from entering school grounds unless authorized by the school board or for child pickup, ban alcohol and drug use, and require random testing twice weekly. Additionally, Stange must avoid firearms and limit contact with her co-defendant, Carroll.
Amanda Gail Carroll, also 38, faces the following charges:
- Possession of Marijuana on School Grounds, a two-year high court misdemeanor.
- Operating a Motor Vehicle While Intoxicated – Second Offense, a one-year misdemeanor.
- Operating a Motor Vehicle While Intoxicated with an Occupant Under 16, a one-year misdemeanor.
Carroll received the same bond amount and conditions as Stange, with an added restriction due to the presence of a minor in her vehicle at the time of the incident.
Both defendants are scheduled for a Probable Cause Conference on January 2, 2025, and a Preliminary Exam on January 9, 2025, before Chief Judge John Chmura of Warren District Court.
Community and Legal Reactions
Macomb County Prosecutor Peter J. Lucido expressed strong condemnation of the actions. “This is deeply concerning and violates the trust our community places in these school administrators,” Lucido said. “Driving under the influence and possessing drugs near school grounds is not only unlawful but also puts the safety of our children at risk.”
The case has sparked outrage and disappointment among parents and local residents, many of whom are calling for immediate action from the Fitzgerald Public Schools Board. The school district has yet to comment on whether the two administrators will be placed on leave or face disciplinary measures pending the outcome of the legal proceedings.
Legal Context and Broader Implications
This case underscores the strict penalties for drug and alcohol offenses in school zones, which carry heightened legal consequences due to the proximity to children. Michigan law treats offenses involving minors and school grounds with particular severity to deter such behavior and protect vulnerable populations.
This incident has also ignited discussions about accountability and professional conduct among public officials. The situation serves as a reminder of the high standards expected of individuals in positions of trust, particularly those overseeing children’s education and welfare.
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