NEW YORK
The Post-Standard

Investigation of priest’s nonprofit focuses on possible theft of funds and hiring of former state legislator who arranged grants

By James T. Mulder, The Post-Standard
on December 20, 2012

Syracuse, N.Y. — State and federal officials are investigating an alcohol and substance abuse nonprofit agency run by a Catholic priest that operates in Syracuse and other locations throughout the state.

Attorney General Eric T. Schneiderman announced today the former chief operating officer of 820 River Street, an arm of Peter Young Housing, Industry and Treatment, has been arrested and charged in Rensselaer County Court with embezzling at least $200,000 from the nonprofit over a four-year period.

Dennis Bassat, 53, of Middle Grove in Saratoga County, was charged with grand larceny, criminal possession of a forged instrument and falsifying business records. He pleaded not guilty at his arraignment today.

Peter Young Housing, Industry and Treatment,…