Ex–ACS director admits stealing gift cards from kids: Manhattan DA

NEW YORK (1010 WINS/WCBS 880) – A former executive director at the city Administration for Children's Services pleaded guilty to stealing nearly $5,000 in gift cards intended for kids, the Manhattan D.A.'s Office said Tuesday.

Courtney Ramirez, 51, pleaded guilty in Manhattan Criminal Court to one count of official misconduct.

According to the D.A.'s office, Ramirez stole gift cards meant to rewards kids who'd completed a leadership program she oversaw.

From 2019 to 2020, Ramirez was the executive director of the Close to Home program, which places kids who've been ordered to live outside their home.

In her role she oversaw the Leadership Incentive Training Program that awarded kids in foster care and juvenile justice programs $350 Visa gift cards for completing the program.

Ramirez was tasked with distributing the gift cards, but instead she used 14 cards—totaling $4,900—for personal expenses in 2019, officials said.

"She took advantage of her leadership position at an agency that seeks to help children facing immense challenges and used their gifts for herself," Manhattan D.A. Alvin Bragg said in a statement.

Another ACS employee tipped off the city Department of Investigation after they discovered a young person in the program didn't receive a gift card.

Ramirez was ordered to pay $4,900 in restitution to ACS and waive her right to appeal. She'll be sentenced to conditional discharge if the full restitution is paid.