New York State Comptroller Thomas P. DiNapoli, Steuben County District Attorney Brooks Baker and the New York State Police today announced that Michelle “Shelly” Stevens, the former executive director of Hornell Partners for Growth (HPG), pleaded guilty to Grand Larceny in the Fourth Degree for stealing $1,711 in cash from the non-profit’s Annual Fourth of July festival that was earmarked for the city’s Business Improvement District.
“Stevens betrayed her responsibility to the public by lining her own pockets with money that was meant to help her community,” DiNapoli said. “Thanks to my partnership with Steuben County D.A. Baker and the State Police she was held accountable for her actions.”
The conviction was a result of a joint investigation by Comptroller DiNapoli, District Attorney Baker and the New York State Police. Stevens, 38, of Almond, worked at HPG from 2014 to 2018 and resigned as the Almond town clerk in Allegany County in Spring of 2021.
“This plea was accomplished based on the tremendous effort and work of the Comptroller’s office, the NY State Police, and the Steuben County DA’s Office,” said Steuben County Assistant District Attorney Drinald V. Bilcari. “It sends the right message that betrayal of public trust will be prosecuted to the fullest extent of the law.”
Stevens was ordered to pay full restitution in the amount of $1,711. She is due back in court for sentencing on January 3, 2023.
Since taking office in 2007, DiNapoli has committed to fighting public corruption and encourages the public to help fight fraud and abuse. New Yorkers can report allegations of fraud involving taxpayer money by calling the toll-free Fraud Hotline at 1-888-672-4555, by filing a complaint online at investigations@osc.ny.gov, or by mailing a complaint to: Office of the State Comptroller, Division of Investigations, 8th Floor, 110 State St., Albany, NY 12236.