Pocono News Section

Stolen Money from West Hazleton Ambulance Association

Stolen Money from West Hazleton Ambulance Association - Thursday, January 22, 2009 at 3:57PM EST

Thursday, Jan 22, 2009 @ 03:57pm EST

WEST HAZLETON, LUZERNE COUNTY- A Luzerne County woman admits she stole thousands of dollars from the West Hazleton Ambulance Association. 24 year old Cassandra Screenock was supposed to take care of money donated for the ambulance company, but investigators say she took care of herself.

Cassandra Screenock of Freeland hid her face and said nothing as she is brought to district court Thursday. She admits she stole $5,000 dollars from the West Hazleton Ambulance Association. She served as treasurer. The problem was discovered by the board of directors.

Chief Brian Buglio of the West Hazleton Police Departments says , "the board realized the money was missing. They confronted her about it. She did return the money after they confronted her. They chose to call the district attorney's office and proceed criminally."

Screenock told detectives she made purchaser for her self and has a gambling addiction, and investigators say thefts like this get their start with a lack of checks and balances. Screenock is free on $10,000 unsecured bail. She will have a hearing next week. She faces up to 12 years in prison and $25,000 dollars in fines. She will have a hearing next week.