Former Erie Humane Society Director Nicole Leone Faces Felony Charges
Erie, PA – Nicole Leone, who resigned as executive director of the Erie Humane Society in November after nine years in the position, is set to be arraigned on Wednesday for criminal charges.
Leone faces three charges filed by the Millcreek Township Police Department, all related to the unauthorized use of two Erie Humane Society credit cards. According to the criminal complaint, she made 139 unauthorized transactions totaling $23,582.27 between June 22, 2023, and November 12, 2023.
The charges against Leone include access device fraud, theft by deception, and tampering with records. The fraud and theft charges are third-degree felonies, while the tampering charge is a misdemeanor. Leone, 41, will be arraigned by District Judge Jeff Gadley at 1:30 p.m. on Wednesday.
Investigation Into Bicycles Sparks Discovery of Fraud
The charges were brought following an internal investigation by the Humane Society. Detective Adam Hardner of the Millcreek Township Police Department reported that the investigation began after a purchase from a local bicycle shop raised suspicions. Leone had allegedly bought two bicycles, one of which was intended for a Humane Society fundraiser. The other, purchased for $1,346.18, matched a bicycle seen on Leone’s personal social media account.
Further investigation revealed that Leone had made numerous personal purchases using the organization’s credit cards, including clothing, sunglasses, household items, and hotel stays. These charges were entered into a spreadsheet, where they were coded as business expenses, making them appear legitimate.
Leone’s arraignment is scheduled for Wednesday, and the investigation continues. If convicted, Leone could face significant legal consequences, including fines and potential prison time.