Judge Orders Former Principal to Stand Trial
Patrick Daly faces felony grand theft charges for alleged embezzlement from a Petaluma high school.
Updated on Oct. 28, 2026 in Financial Crime
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A judge ruled that sufficient evidence exists for 62-year-old former principal Patrick Daly to stand trial for felony grand theft. The charges center on the alleged embezzlement of funds from St. Vincent de Paul High School in Petaluma.
Why it matters
The case involves serious allegations of financial mismanagement at a local educational institution, highlighting the impact of potential fraud on school resources. The court proceedings will determine the legal outcome of these accusations regarding unauthorized personal spending.
A judge ordered the former principal to stand trial following a preliminary hearing that included testimony from investigators. Daly is currently scheduled for arraignment on November 19.
The players
Patrick Daly
He is the 62-year-old former principal of St. Vincent de Paul High School who is now facing felony grand theft charges.
St. Vincent de Paul High School
This is the Petaluma educational institution where the alleged embezzlement of funds occurred.
The details
Authorities allege that Daly used school funds for unauthorized credit card purchases including pet supplies, massage services, and charges totaling $3,500 at the San Leandro Marina. Investigators identified 49 separate cash advancements linked to the defendant during his tenure.
Timeline
Patrick Daly was hired as principal in 2017.
The defendant was fired in August 2023.
Daly filed a wrongful termination lawsuit in March 2024.
An arrest warrant was issued in July 2024.
The judge ordered the defendant to stand trial on October 27, 2026.
Legal Context
This case follows a pattern set by the prosecution of school administrators for financial improprieties in California school districts. It highlights the evolving scrutiny of administrative oversight and the fiscal responsibility required in private and public educational settings.
The case raises questions for the local community regarding financial transparency and internal auditing procedures at private educational institutions. Residents and parents may see increased focus on oversight measures at schools in the Petaluma area.
The takeaway
The court's decision to proceed to trial marks a significant development in the ongoing legal dispute between the former principal and his previous employer. Community members can monitor future court filings to see how the school addresses the alleged financial discrepancies.
What happens next
Patrick Daly is scheduled to appear for an arraignment on November 19.
Further reading
Learn more about local investigations in the Financial Crime section.
Source note: This article includes information reported by Santa Rosa Press Democrat.
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