Library Business Manager Charged In 7-Year-Long Embezzlement Scheme

MAMARONECK, NY — The former Mamaroneck Public Library business manager, who resigned in March after 27 years, has been charged with embezzlement. She stands accused of spending library funds on personal expenses for nearly seven years.

Westchester County District Attorney Miriam Rocah announced today that Mary Soto was arraigned on a felony charge of stealing approximately $44,769 from the library between 2016 and 2023.

"We are committed to seeking accountability for the alleged betrayal of trust by a lifelong Mamaroneck resident who held a position of leadership in the community," Rocah said in a statement today.

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Soto, a Mamaroneck resident, was arrested on Dec. 14 by the Westchester County District Attorney’s Office and arraigned in Mamaroneck Village Court on the charge of grand larceny in the third degree. The 62-year-old's next court date is Jan. 25.

Investigators said that between May 2016 and February 2023, Soto stole approximately $44,769 from the library’s bank accounts in the form of credit card and recurring debit transactions, for personal expenses.

She resigned from the library in March after 27 years, as the extent of uncovered financial impropieties threatened the very existence of the Mamaroneck institution. Only after emergency relief was provided by the village was the library, which is independent from the municipal government, able to keep its doors open. The library's operating budget has still not fully recovered from the scandal that rocked the Sound Shore community.

"We are hopeful that the judicial process will bring accountability and a satisfactory resolution for Mamaroneck's taxpayers," the Mamaroneck Public Library said in a statement released on Thursday. "We understand the community has questions and concerns about these events. We appreciate your patience and assure you that we are diligently working to furnish complete and accurate answers. Open communication is vital, and we pledge to keep you informed of any additional developments."

Library officials expressed gratitude to Westchester County Assistant District Attorney of the Public and Law Enforcement Integrity Bureau Renee Hassel, and her team, "for their commitment and professionalism in this matter."