ALBANY, NY – Kristina Hand, 47, of Morris, New York, is facing serious federal charges after allegedly pilfering over $22,000 from the Morris Central School District, authorities announced today. The former school treasurer is accused of diverting checks made payable to the district for personal gain, a betrayal of public trust that has landed her in the crosshairs of federal investigators.
Acting United States Attorney Antoinette T. Bacon, New York State Comptroller Thomas P. DiNapoli, FBI Special Agent in Charge Thomas F. Relford, and New York State Police Superintendent Keith M. Corlett jointly revealed the charges. The investigation uncovered evidence suggesting Hand, while serving as Treasurer, systematically siphoned funds between 2018 and 2019 – critical years where the school district received over $10,000 in federal funding. It’s a classic case of someone entrusted with public money allegedly lining their own pockets.
According to a criminal complaint, Hand allegedly stole at least $22,315.33. The school district discovered the missing funds and terminated her employment in February 2020, but the wheels of justice have now begun to turn. The brazen theft highlights a disturbing lack of oversight and raises questions about internal controls within the district. This wasn’t a momentary lapse; it was a sustained effort to defraud the school and, ultimately, the students it serves.
Hand made her initial appearance before United States Magistrate Judge Daniel J. Stewart today and was released pending further court proceedings. While the charges are currently accusations and Hand is presumed innocent until proven guilty, the potential consequences are steep. If convicted, she faces a maximum sentence of up to 10 years in prison, a hefty fine of up to $250,000, and up to 3 years of supervised release following incarceration.
The FBI, New York State Police, and the Office of the New York State Comptroller are collaborating on this investigation, demonstrating a unified front against public corruption. Assistant U.S. Attorney Michael Barnett is prosecuting the case, tasked with building a solid case and securing a conviction. This case serves as a stark warning: stealing from schools – and from taxpayers – will not be tolerated.
The sentencing, should Hand be found guilty, will be determined by a judge considering the specific violations, U.S. Sentencing Guidelines, and other relevant factors. Grimy Times will continue to follow this case and provide updates as they become available. This isn’t just about money; it’s about accountability and restoring faith in the institutions meant to serve our communities.
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Key Facts
- State: New York
- Agency: DOJ USAO
- Category: White Collar Crime
- Source: Official Source ↗
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