The former leader of an influential New York social-service charity is expected to admit in court Wednesday that he took part in a conspiracy to steal more than $7-million from the organization, The New York Times reports, citing people familiar with the case.
William E. Rapfogel was charged with grand larceny and other offenses in September, six weeks after he was fired by the Metropolitan New York Council on Jewish Poverty after 21 years as executive director. A prominent figure in city philanthropic and political circles, he was accused of colluding in a scheme to overcharge the charity for insurance. The extra payments were kicked back to conspirators and used for political contributions and personal gain, according to prosecutors.
Mr. Rapfogel’s predecessor at the council, David Cohen, will also reportedly plead guilty to multiple charges Wednesday. Sources told the Times that both men will face prison sentences, and Mr. Rapfogel has agreed to pay substantial restitution. A lawyer for Mr. Rapfogel did not return a call for comment, and Mr. Cohen’s lawyer declined to comment.