WATERTOWN, NY (August 25, 2009) - Attorney General Andrew M. Cuomo today announced the arrest and conviction of the former Executive Director of the St. Lawrence County chapter of the Citizens Against Violent Acts (CAVA) for using her official position to steal more than $20,000 from the organization. Carrie Whalen, 46, of Colton, was arraigned before Canton Village Court Justice Michael C. Crowe and pleaded guilty to Petit Larceny. Whalen agreed to repay $20,475.85, and resigned from her position as the CAVA Executive Director. Whalen was sentenced to a conditional discharge and agreed to repay an additional $5,025 in excess travel reimbursements that she received. “This non-profit was used as a piggy bank for personal gain,” said Attorney General Cuomo. “Organizations like CAVA provide an invaluable service to the community, and this individual took advantage of her position and the public’s trust.” According to court records, CAVA is a not-for-profit victims’ advocacy group based in...