The former executive director of Girls On The Run (GOTR) of Central NY was charged with allegedly stealing more than $79,000 from the non-profit organization, New York State Comptroller Thomas P. DiNapoli and New York State Police Superintendent Steven G. James announced. The defendant, Nicole S. Weigel, of Fonda, was charged with grand larceny in the second degree.
“Nicole Weigel allegedly betrayed her position of trust by diverting money meant to bolster the confidence and strength of young girls to instead enhance her lifestyle with entertainment and other personal charges,” DiNapoli said. “Thanks to my partnership with Otsego County District Attorney Christopher J. Di Donna and the New York State Police, she will be held accountable for her alleged crimes.”
“The conduct of those who take advantage of their position and steal money meant to enhance opportunities for our youth will not be tolerated. We will continue to vigilantly investigate any case involving financial deceit and individuals who take advantage of their position at the expense of the community,” James said. “The State Police will continue to work with the Comptroller’s Office and our law enforcement partners to end these types of crimes and hold accountable those who mistakenly think they can get away with these acts.”
GOTR receives its funding from various school districts and donations. It provides programming aimed at strengthening third- to eighth-grade girls’ social, emotional, physical, and behavioral skills.
After receiving a complaint about Weigel last October, the New York State Police contacted DiNapoli’s Office, and a joint investigation and forensic audit was conducted.
Investigators determined that from February 2023 until September 2025, Weigel allegedly stole $79,856.88 from GOTR through cash withdrawals of over $15,000 from ATMs, and using the GOTR debit card for personal purchases including lodging and car rentals, hotels, restaurants, Broadway shows, a mountain bike and kayaks.
While on an approved trip to Vegas, Weigel also allegedly used GOTR funds to see a show, attend a performance at the Sphere, and eat at several restaurants.
Weigel, 44, who served as executive director of GOTR from February 2023 to October 2025, was the only individual with access to the GOTR debit card and bank account.
Weigel was arraigned on May 5th at the Otsego County Centralized Arraignment Part before Judge Robert Woodrow. She is due back in court on May 7, 2026.
The charges filed in this case are merely accusations and the defendants are presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty in a court of law.
Since taking office in 2007, DiNapoli has committed to fighting public corruption and encourages the public to help fight fraud and abuse. New Yorkers can report allegations of fraud involving taxpayer money by calling the toll-free Fraud Hotline at 1-888-672-4555, by filing a complaint online at https://www.osc.ny.gov/investigations, or by mailing a complaint to: Office of the State Comptroller, Division of Investigations, 8th Floor, 110 State St., Albany, NY 12236.