The state has filed suit against the former executive director of a now-defunct Hartford development nonprofit, alleging that she misappropriated charitable funds, Connecticut Attorney General George Jepsen and Consumer Protection Commissioner William Rubenstein announced.
Karen Lewis led South Arsenal Neighborhood Development from 2000 to 2009. The suit alleges that starting in 2006, Lewis used the nonprofit’s debit card to withdraw cash and to make purchases at Connecticut casinos, as well as to make a payments on a personal credit card.
The suit says the state believes Lewis misappropriated more than $200,000 in charitable funds.
“These funds were intended to support the Arsenal Neighborhood, but were instead used by Ms. Lewis for her personal gain,” Jepsen said in a statement. “This conduct simply will not be tolerated.”
The suit seeks a permanent injunction against Lewis holding any office or position with a charitable organization in Connecticut where she would have control over the disbursement of funds.
