Rensselaer County man accused of stealing donations meant for multiple sclerosis charity

A Rensselaer County man is accused of stealing donations meant for the National Multiple Sclerosis Society.

George W. Gorman, 55, of Valley Falls, collected numerous cash and check donations on behalf of the organization throughout 2024, State Police said. He then allegedly deposited them into multiple personal bank accounts. He did not forward all the funds to the charity, which resulted in a theft of more than $1,000, according to police.  

Gorman has reportedly been fundraising for the organization for around 20 years, police said. The charity alerted police to the possible theft in August.

Gorman was arrested on Jan. 9 and charged with grand larceny and scheme to defraud. He was issued an appearance ticket and is due in Schaghticoke Town Court on Jan. 20.

The State Police urge community members who wish to donate to charitable organizations to send their contributions directly to the organization to avoid the risk of misdirected funds.