A Waterbury woman is facing multiple charges after allegedly defrauding three Waitsfield charitable organizations out of approximately $40,000 by falsely claiming financial hardship, according to the Vermont State Police.
Authorities say Amanda Haskins, 37, used multiple aliases to request financial assistance for overdue rent payments from the Mad River Valley Community Fund, the Mad River Valley Interfaith Council, and the Community Action Service Team. The fraudulent activity was first reported on December 16, 2024, when the Mad River Valley Interfaith Council contacted state police about a suspicious funding request.
A subsequent investigation revealed that Haskins had already received substantial funds from multiple organizations under false pretenses. Police say she repeatedly misrepresented her financial situation to secure financial aid, resulting in tens of thousands of dollars in losses for the charitable groups.
On February 26, Haskins voluntarily arrived at the Berlin Barracks, where she was taken into custody. She was processed and later released with a citation to appear in Washington County Superior Court, Criminal Division, on April 10.
Haskins faces charges of false personation, false pretenses, and false statements of financial ability. Further details will be made available once court documents are filed following her arraignment.
Authorities urge individuals and organizations to exercise caution when providing financial assistance and to report any suspicious activity to law enforcement.