A crooked nonprofit director sentenced to 10 months in prison yesterday for a politically connected embezzlement scheme sobbed to a federal judge that she wants time off to see her mom.
“At least for my mother, let me out once a month, please,” Margarita Villegas told Manhattan federal Judge Alvin Hellerstein.
Villegas, 54, pleaded guilty in March to stealing $54,000, yet still holds her job with the SBCC Management Corp.
Prosecutor Rua Kelly said Villegas pilfered federal funds earmarked for two low-income apartment buildings for the elderly and disabled.
Officials said she blew some of the loot on clothes, shoes and vacations. She also diverted $15,050 for campaign contributions and new office flooring for state Assemblywoman Carmen Arroyo, and summer interns for Arroyo and City Councilwoman Maria del Carmen Arroyo, both of The Bronx. Neither Democratic pol has been charged.