A Waterford woman has pleaded guilty to charges of fraud after being accused of embezzling nearly $400,000 from a nonprofit organization dedicated to addiction and mental health services. Michele Devine, 50, served as the executive director of the Southeastern Regional Action Council on Substance Abuse, Inc., which operates in 41 towns across Connecticut.
Key Takeaways
- Michele Devine, 50, pleaded guilty to wire fraud.
- Accused of embezzling nearly $400,000 from a nonprofit.
- Devine spent funds on personal expenses unrelated to the organization.
- She faces a maximum prison term of 20 years.
- Sentencing is scheduled for January 13, 2024.
Background of the Case
Michele Devine was the executive director of the Southeastern Regional Action Council on Substance Abuse, Inc., a nonprofit organization based in Norwich, Connecticut. This organization primarily receives funding through government grants to provide essential services to communities struggling with substance abuse and mental health issues.
Beginning in 2008, Devine allegedly misappropriated funds intended for these vital services. Prosecutors claim that she used the nonprofit’s money for personal expenses, which included:
- Home appliances
- Travel expenses
- Timeshare fees at a Connecticut resort
- Stays at the Canyon Ranch in the Berkshires
- Donations to private schools
The Embezzlement Scheme
According to the U.S. Attorney for the District of Connecticut, Vanessa Roberts Avery, Devine’s fraudulent activities spanned over a decade. The misuse of funds was not only a breach of trust but also a significant detriment to the communities served by the nonprofit.
The total amount embezzled is reported to be nearly $400,000, a sum that could have provided critical support to individuals in need of addiction and mental health services.
Legal Proceedings
Devine was arrested in 2023 after an investigation revealed the extent of her fraudulent activities. She has since pleaded guilty to wire fraud, a serious offense that carries a maximum prison sentence of 20 years.
Her sentencing is set for January 13, 2024, and she is currently released on a $25,000 bond while awaiting her court date.
Community Impact
The actions of Michele Devine have raised concerns within the Waterford community and beyond. Nonprofits play a crucial role in providing essential services, and incidents like this can undermine public trust in such organizations.
As the case unfolds, it serves as a reminder of the importance of transparency and accountability in nonprofit management.
Devine’s case highlights the need for stringent oversight to prevent similar occurrences in the future, ensuring that funds are used appropriately to support those in need.
