Hand in the Cookie Jar

Most of us know that the Girl Scouts of America sells some tasty cookies. As for its mission, the organization’s web site states: “Girl Scouting builds girls of courage, confidence, and character, who make the world a better place.” The CEO, Kathy Cloninger, offers inspirational words:

Being honest and fair, courageous and strong, using resources wisely, respecting yourself and others, and making the world a better place…these are values that our staff and our volunteers on a national and a local level continually teach, model, and reinforce.

Unfortunately, not all staff members share this vision. The New York Post is reporting that authorities recently arrested Yaasmin Hooey, of Manhattan, for embezzling over $300,000 from the organization. Ms. Hooey served as the director of finance for the Girl Scout Council of Greater New York. Allegedly, she wrote checks payable to herself, forged the name of GSCGNY’s then-CEO, and then either cashed or deposited them.

Apparently, the only world that Ms. Hooey sought to make better was her own. Authorities claim she used some of the funds to purchase a $13,000 diamond ring and enjoy a luxury cruise.

Ms. Hooey faces charges including grand larceny, forgery, criminal possession of a forged instrument, falsifying business records, and criminal tax fraud. She has pleaded not guilty. We’ll see whether the plea turns out to be a bunch of hooey.