A former New Haven Community Schools administrator accused of embezzling money from the district pleaded no contest to reduced charges Thursday and repaid more than $1,800.
Antie Hardy, 51, initially charged with embezzlement while he served as New Haven athletic director, entered the plea to two reduced charges of no-account checks. He was accused of cashing two checks made out to the district and taking the money for personal use.
A no-contest plea is treated like a guilty plea by the court. Hardy was sentenced immediately by Macomb County Circuit Judge Mary Chrzanowski. The former administrator was ordered to repay the district $1,858. He made the restitution immediately, according to court records.
Hardy also was assessed fines and court costs.
Hardy was hired by New Haven at the start of the 2003-2004 school year as athletic director and assistant principal at New Haven High School. During his duties as athletic director, sometime in 2011, school officials noticed a discrepancy with funds. An ensuing investigation resulted in police involvement and eventually criminal charges against Hardy.
According to school records, Hardy took a medical leave from the district during the 2011-2012 school year, and then resigned at the conclusion of that year. His post was filled on an interim basis.
Jason Jelalian, an attorney listed for Hardy, could not be reached for comment Thursday.
New Haven Superintendent Keith Wunderlich called the incident “unfortunate” for the district as well as Hardy
“Antie had a lot of skills and talents,” Wunderlich said. “It’s unfortunate … he’s not able to use those.”
Wunderlich also said he was satisfied New Haven will be reimbursed for the money that was taken.
“From the school district’s perspective, we’re good,” he said.
New Haven has hired a new athletic director for the upcoming school year.
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