Another NYC Politician Facing Charges of Charity Fraud

A New York City councilman was arrested Wednesday on fraud and larceny charges that include allegations that he pilfered tens of thousands of taxpayer dollars earmarked for a charity he launched, reports The New York Times.

Ruben W. Wills, a Queens Democrat, is the latest in a line of New York political leaders accused and, in several cases, convicted of pocketing government funds granted to affiliated nonprofit groups. His arrest has revived debate about the largely unrestricted ability of city and state legislators to direct grants to community organizations.

According to authorities, Mr. Wills obtained a $33,000 grant to start an anti-obesity charity called New York 4 Life through the offices of former state Sen. Shirley L. Huntley—herself convicted last year of embezzling from a charity she led—and used more than half the money on personal shopping trips. He is also accused of misusing city-provided matching campaign funds.

Mr. Wills denied the charges and said he would not give up his council seat.