Jennifer Colucci, the former tax collector for the town of Beekman, has been sentenced for stealing over $86,000 in public funds. New York State Comptroller Thomas P. DiNapoli, along with Dutchess County District Attorney Anthony Parisi and the New York State Police, announced the sentencing on January 3, 2024.
Colucci was ordered to pay full restitution of $88,821.40, serve five years of probation, complete community service, and her time served included 209 days in jail. She has already paid the restitution in full and completed her community service.
During her two-year tenure ending in August 2020, Colucci misappropriated $86,389 in tax payments, which she spent on online shopping, groceries, and car payments. She pleaded guilty to Grand Larceny in the 4th degree in April 2022.
“This individual violated the public trust by blatantly disregarding the law and stealing from town funds,” stated New York State Police Acting Superintendent Dominick L. Chiumento.
Colucci’s sentencing was carried out in Dutchess County Court by Judge Edward McLoughlin. The case exemplifies the ongoing commitment of state officials, like Comptroller DiNapoli, to combat public corruption and maintain the integrity of government operations.
DiNapoli encourages the public to report any allegations of fraud involving taxpayer money through various available channels. The case against Colucci underscores the serious consequences of betraying public trust and the collaborative efforts of law enforcement to uphold justice.
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