P.S. 29 PTA Embezzler Providence Hogan Pleads Guilty

After she pleaded guilty to three counts of grand larceny for , and after her attorney handed a check for $50,000 to PTA Co-President Maura Sheehy, Providence Hogan gave a tearful statement.

Her eyes were focused on the piece of paper in her hands, but when she looked up, she directed her words toward the side of the courtroom where nearly a dozen PTA parents sat, and have sat more than a few times over the past eight months. Hogan asked for forgiveness.

"What I did was obviously criminal, but also morally reprehensible and spiritually bereft," Hogan said, pausing to catch her breath. "I am so, so sorry."

Hogan was able to pay $50,000 Tuesday in part because of a recent New York Times column written by Ginia Bellafante. Hogan's attorney Stephen Flamhaft told reporters after the sentencing that the profile had inspired multiple people, including an old aquaintance of Hogan's, to come forward and lend her money. One person, whom Flamhaft would not name, is now also a business partner at the .

Judge Suzanne Mondo has said all along that in order for Hogan to avoid trial and possible jail time, she needed to "make the school whole." Flamhaft met with Mondo and they came to the agreement on how she would make restitution to the school. She will pay back the remaining $30,000 over the next two years, followed by five years of probation.

Mondo warned Hogan about making payments on time.

"If you fail to make a payment, I will order a warrant for your arrest," she said. "I will not accept any excuses."

The PTA is ready to move on. Following the sentencing, more than a few parents said they were glad the ordeal was coming to a close, but would not say whether they were ready to forgive Hogan.

"We're very much looking to move forward and put our energies into something positive," said Natalie Green Giles, a former chairwoman of the school leadership team.

Hogan's last words made it clear that she was hopeful about the future, too.

"I will not let you down," she said.

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Correction, Nov. 2, 6:35 p.m.: The original story reported that Hogan had received financial support from the Kane Street Synagogue. According to her lawyer, Stephen Flamhaft, Hogan did not receive support from Kane Street, nor is she a congregant there.