Disgraced Court Clerk Who Tampered With Records Avoids More Jail Time

SAUGERTIES, NY — A former court clerk who tried to illegally make a criminal case disappear will herself face consequences for her actions.

Ulster County District Attorney Emmanuel C. Nneji announced on Tuesday the sentencing of Haley Whalen, who was convicted for tampering with public records in the first degree. Her conviction stemmed from actions she took while employed by the Town of Saugerties Court.

Nneji condemned Whalen's fraud, saying it creates far-reaching consequences for the court system and for the public.

"Tampering with court records is not a victimless crime, or a small matter; it is at the heart of fairness and justice for all,” Nneji said. "This fraud upon the court and the citizens of Saugerties undermines public trust and confidence in our judicial system. This corruption of official access and power for personal favors and gain must be discouraged with prosecution to preserve the public's right to a fair process and the integrity of any court in Ulster County."

While working for the court, Whalen dismissed charges against the father of her child, without the authorization of any judge of that court to do so, and she did this on separate dates.

In addition to eight months she already spent in jail for a DWI case, she was sentenced to five years of probation, during which time she will be monitored and supervised. In addition, she is required to make restitution of $100 to the court.

The New York State Police investigated this crime and filed the charges.