Thomas
MOUNT VERNON – Mayor Richard Thomas of Mount Vernon was arrested
on Monday for allegedly stealing campaign funds and lying about money
he diverted from his inaugural committee for personal benefit. (Click
for felony complaint)
State Attorney General Eric Schneiderman said Thomas allegedly stole $12,900
from his campaign committee and diverted over $45,000 from his inaugural
committee for personal use and failed to disclose it.
It is also alleged that after taking office, Thomas used funds from his
inaugural committee account to pay the monthly balance on his and his
wife’s personal Amex account to the tune of over $8,500. Included
in those expenses were charges for a family vacation to Mexico. Also included
in the credit card balance was $2,000 for a Chanel purse.
The charges also allege that a local businessman paid over $5,000 toward
his credit card and over $2,800 last year. He then appointed that person
to a high ranking law enforcement position.
Thomas also allegedly accepted $6,000 from a supporter to pay his NYU
Stern School of Business tuition bill.
The attorney general said the investigation is continuing.
If convicted of the felony charges, Thomas would, by law, have to step
down from his mayoral position.
