Lisa Barrett, a former president of the Wyoming Area Education Association, has been charged with embezzling over $30,000 of the labor organization’s funds from 2006 to 2012. According to the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the Middle District of Pennsylvania, Barrett, 48, of Shavertown, Luzerne County, converted the organization’s funds to her own use.
The investigation was conducted by the Federal Bureau of Investigation, and the case is being prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Robert J. O’Hara. A plea agreement has been filed with the District Court, pending approval.
Barrett resigned as WAEA President in March 2013. The maximum penalty under the federal statute is imprisonment for five years, a term of supervised release following imprisonment, and a fine. Under the Federal Sentencing Guidelines, the Judge will consider and weigh a number of factors, including the nature, circumstances, and seriousness of the offense.
The charges against Barrett are only allegations, and she is presumed innocent unless and until found guilty in court. A sentence following a finding of guilty will be imposed by the Judge after consideration of the applicable federal sentencing statutes and the Federal Sentencing Guidelines.
The U.S. Attorney’s Office for the Middle District of Pennsylvania announced the filing of an Information in U.S. District Court in Scranton today. United States Attorney Peter J. Smith stated that Barrett’s actions demonstrated a breach of trust and a serious betrayal of the public’s trust.
The case highlights the importance of transparency and accountability in public institutions. The Wyoming Area Education Association serves as a vital part of the community, providing essential services to students and educators. The alleged actions of Barrett undermine the organization’s mission and values.
Key Facts
- State: Pennsylvania
- Category: Public Corruption|White Collar Crime
- Source: DOJ Press Release ↗
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