COUNTY - The former financial director of LaHave Manor has been given until 2010 to repay the money he took from the adult residential centre.

 Stephen Robert Black wasn't in Bridgewater provincial court June 18, but Crown attorney Lloyd Tancock reported the case is proceeding through the adult diversion program. That means that if the 35 year old successfully completes all the terms of his agreement, he won't end up with a criminal record.

 Back in December, the RCMP charged Mr. Black in connection with his employment with the centre. Those charges included defrauding the LaHave Manor Corporation of $9,424.27 between August 2005 and April 2007 by stealing, misusing credit cards, falsifying documents and failing to provide accurate information.

 He was also charged with writing false cheques during the same time period, along with possessing stolen property on December 6 of last year. That property allegedly included computer equipment, a computer desk, an iPod Nano and a lawn mower.

 In order to be accepted into the adult diversion program, Mr. Black must accept responsibility for the crimes. If he completes what he is supposed to do, the Crown will ultimately withdraw the charges.

 In court last week, Mr. Tancock said he'd like to schedule regular updates on Mr. Black's progress. The next one is set for December 17.

posted on 06/24/08