NorthSask Special Needs is located in La Ronge, but assists clients throughout Northern Saskatchewan. (Derek Cornet/larongeNOW Staff)

By Derek Cornet

crime and courts

Former NorthSask Special Needs executive director receives jail time for fraud

Apr 17, 2023 | 2:20 PM

A La Ronge woman was led out the local courthouse in handcuffs on Monday after being sentenced to four months in jail for fraud.

Deri Ann Ratt, 38, was a former executive director of NorthSask Special Needs, a non-profit organization in La Ronge that assists individuals with disabilities. She was arrested in September 2020 and it was alleged she stole more than $120,000.

She entered a guilty plea for fraud on Dec. 5, 2021, and was originally scheduled to be sentenced in February.

In additional to the four months in jail, Ratt was sentenced to 36 months of probation and must pay $70,000 in restitution. She must pay $7,200 in the next 30 months.

Two other charges including possession of stolen property and breach of trust were stayed.

Iran War

Iran calls on public to find 'enemy pilot' as U.S. continues frantic search

2h ago

Cheese recall

Co-op product sold in Sask. among items recalled over listeria concerns: CFIA

2h ago

Twist on a classic

Regina board game designer puts new spin on crokinole

19h ago

At the time the charges were laid, NorthSask Special Needs provided a statement, indicating their full cooperation and transparency with their funder and the authorities regarding the matter.

“NorthSask Special Needs will continue to focus our efforts on working closely with our clients, communities, staff, and funders to provide sustainable and quality services that meet the needs of the individuals, families, and communities we are committed to serving.”

The non-profit organization acts as a service delivery agent for programs funded by the health authority.

–

derek.cornet@pattisonmedia.com

Twitter: @saskjourno