Thursday, 4:30 PM
Ex-director arraigned in theft of Red Cross funds
By John R. Ellement, Globe staff
The former executive director of an American Red Cross chapter pleaded not guilty during her arraignment today in Leominster District Court to charges that she used the charity's money to pay for personal expenses, according to a spokesman for Worcester District Attorney Joseph E. Early Jr.
Deanie M. Harris faced one count of larceny over $250 by scheme for allegedly misusing gift cards donated to the Leominster Red Cross office for victims of Hurricane Katrina and for allegedly using Red Cross funds to pay for personal expenses, such as having her personal SUV detailed at the cost of $200, according to a summary of the case filed in court.
John M. Dombrowski, Harris's attorney told the Worcester Telegram and Gazette, "She's maintaining her innocence, so right now we are preparing for trial. ... She's going to have her day in court."
According to court records, local churches and businesses donated nearly $3,000 in gift cards for Katrina victims that allegedly were never provided to them, but instead diverted by Harris for her personal use.
Harris was formerly the executive director of the North Central Massachusetts Chapter of the American Red Cross, which has since merged with the Worcester chapter.
She was released on personal recognizance and is due back in court Nov. 19, according to Early's office.
