A former YWCA administrator was sentenced to more than a year in federal prison, for stealing nearly $200,000 from the organization. Rikki Ross of Hoover pleaded guilty earlier this year. Ross, the group's former childcare director, also was ordered to forfeit nearly $198,000 to the government, and pay the same amount in restitution to the YWCA of Central Alabama.
U.S. Attorney Jay Town issued the following statement:
"For 115 years, the YWCA has provided services to our community, including much needed childcare services for families in need. The parents trusted this defendant to provide a safe environment for their children. Ms. Ross betrayed the trust of the parents and the YWCA. Her deliberate theft from low-income working families and from a non-profit agency dedicated to helping young women and families in need is reprehensible. A federal prison cell awaits her."