State Comptroller Thomas P. DiNapoli, Wayne County District Attorney Michael Calarco, and the New York State Police announced the arrest of Eileen Steurrys, the former part time court clerk for the Town of Marion, for the alleged theft of $59,293 in court fines, fees and surcharges.
“The defendant went to great lengths in her attempt to cover up her alleged theft of public funds. Now, because of my office’s investigation and our partnership with state and local law enforcement, she faces the consequences of her actions,” DiNapoli said. “My thanks to District Attorney Calarco and the State Police for helping my office fight public corruption.”
New York State Police Acting Superintendent Steven A. Nigrelli said, “I commend the diligent work of our State Police members, along with our partners at the State Comptroller’s Office and District Attorney’s Office, for their hard work in putting an end to this deceitful plan. The arrest of this individual sends a strong message that we will not tolerate dishonest actions by those who use their position at the expense of the public. The State Police remains ready to assist in investigating and apprehending those individuals willing to engage in fraudulent acts.”
Michael D. Calarco, Wayne County District Attorney said, “I wish to thank and commend Mr. DiNapoli and the NYSP for their hard work and cooperation. This is a clear example of agencies from State and Local government working together to serve and protect the public.”
The former court clerk’s crimes were uncovered during an audit of the Town of Marion Court Fund, which found court fees were not always being deposited. A resulting investigation in collaboration with Wayne County District Attorney Calarco and the State Police determined that, from 2016 to 2021, the defendant allegedly stole over $50,000, then altered court records and created phony receipts in an effort to conceal her crimes.
She admitted to the thefts when questioned by DiNapoli’s investigators and stated that she had altered and deleted court records when she learned of the impending audit before abruptly retiring as a part time court clerk.
Steurrys, 67, was charged Wednesday with grand larceny in the second degree, corrupting the government in the second degree, tampering with public records in the first degree and official misconduct. She was arraigned in Wayne County’s Court Arraignment Procedure before Judge Marsha Williams. She is due back in court on March 22nd.
The charges filed in this case are merely accusations and the defendant is presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty in a court of law.
Since taking office in 2007, DiNapoli has committed to fighting public corruption and 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 https://www.osc.state.ny.us/investigations, or by mailing a complaint to: Office of the State Comptroller, Division of Investigations, 8th Floor, 110 State St., Albany, NY 12236.