New York State Comptroller Thomas P. DiNapoli today announced the arrest of Cohocton Town Clerk Sandra Riley. She was charged with grand larceny in the third degree, a class D felony, and official misconduct, a class A misdemeanor, after an audit and investigation by DiNapoli’s office uncovered the misappropriation of more than $36,000 in public funds. 

Riley confessed to DiNapoli’s staff and the New York State Police that she pocketed tax penalty payments, as well as cash for building permits and dog licenses, over a six-year period. Riley was arraigned in Village of Bath court and is due back on September 15. 

“This is another troubling case of a local official abusing her position to steal taxpayer money,” said DiNapoli. “We will continue to work to expose public corruption and partner with law enforcement to bring offenders to justice and recoup stolen public money. I want to thank Steuben County District Attorney Brooks Baker and the New York State Police for their continued partnership with my staff to make sure these types of individuals are held accountable for their actions.” 

The Comptroller’s audit is expected to be finalized later this year. 

DiNapoli 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 [email protected], or by mailing a complaint to: Office of the State Comptroller, Division of Investigations, 14th floor, 110 State St., Albany, NY 12236.