Plattsburgh businesswoman found guilty of stealing thousands

PLATTSBURGH | A Plattsburgh woman now faces prison time after being found guilty of stealing tens of thousands of dollars from an elderly acquaintance over a five-year span. Clinton County District Attorney Andrew J. Wyle announced the jury's decision March 12. Authorities said Norma Hill, owner and manager of Norma J's Café and Bakeshop in downtown Plattsburgh, used her authority as a power of attorney to access the man's bank account and transfer money from his checking account into her own without his permission. The thefts were made in a series of online transactions starting in February 2019 and ending in October 2024. The 60-year-old then used the stolen money to cover expenses related to her restaurant. Following an investigation by the Plattsburgh Police Department, Hill was indicted in August 2025 on one count of third-degree grand larceny. Investigators uncovered the full scope of the theft through financial records and interviews. During the trial, prosecutors presented financial records, witness testimony, and other evidence showing that Hill systematically exploited her access to the victim's finances under the power of attorney. The jury returned the guilty verdict after roughly two hours of deliberation. The Honorable Keith M. Bruno presided over the trial. Following the jury's verdict of guilty, Judge Bruno scheduled sentencing for May 19. She faces a maximum sentence of two and 1/3 to seven years in state prison. "This case reflects our continued commitment to protecting vulnerable members of our community," District Attorney Wylie said. "Exploiting an elderly individual for personal gain is a serious crime, and today's verdict ensures justice for the victim. I want to extend my appreciation to the Plattsburgh City Police Department for its thorough investigation and to the witnesses who came forward to assist in securing this conviction." Hill was represented by Lauren Parnes, Esq. The case was prosecuted by Assistant District Attorneys Jeffrey Kehm and Jennifer Manning. Editor's Note: An earlier version of this article indicated sentencing was scheduled in November, but the date has since been clarified as being set for May 19.

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Plattsburgh businesswoman found guilty of stealing thousands

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