POUGHKEEPSIE – Jennifer Colucci, the former Town of Beekman Tax Collector was sentenced Wednesday, after pleading guilty to stealing more than $80,000 in town money from 2018-2020. Colucci was arrested by the state police in March 2021 and charged with felony grand larceny – public corruption. She pled guilty to the charge in April 2022.
A review of town finances by New York State Comptroller Tom DiNapoli’s Office determined that Colucci, the town’s tax collector for two years, had stolen $88, 821.40 of town money. Colucci used the collected tax payments to pay for her online shopping, groceries, and car payments.
Dutchess County District Attorney Anthony Parisi said his office will prosecute everyone who breaks the law, equally.
“This office will prosecute any person, regardless of position or office, who breaks the law,” The longtime prosecutor said. “It doesn’t matter what position you hold – if you have broken the law and have broken the public trust, we will prosecute you to the fullest extent of the law.”
Dutchess County Court Judge Ed McLoughlin ordered Colucci to pay full restitution and sentenced her to five years of probation, community service, and time served. Colucci served 209 days in the Dutchess County Jail, paid back the money in full, and completed her community service. before the January 3, 2024 court appearance.
“Public corruption does damage beyond the theft of money because it corrodes the public’s trust in government,” DiNapoli said. “My office partners with law enforcement across the state to hold accountable those who betray their duty to the public. My thanks to District Attorney Parisi and the State Police for their assistance in ensuring justice was served in this case.”
Video statement of Dutchess County DA Anthony Parisi:
