LENOX (AP) — A former teller at a western Massachusetts bank has been charged for her alleged role in the embezzlement of $378,000 from the bank.
Bernadine Powers, off Becket, pleaded not guilty in federal court to conspiracy to embezzle bank funds and make false bank entries. She was released on personal recognizance.
Prosecutors say from 2009 until 2013 Powers and another employee of Lenox National Bank stole from tellers’ drawers and the vault, then falsified bank records to cover up the thefts. Authorities say she used the money for personal expenses, including travel, shopping, restaurants and household bills.
The Berkshire Eagle reports that her attorney, Leonard Cohen, had no comment on the charges.
The 125-year-old Lenox National Bank has since been sold to Adams Community Bank.