Pittsburgh Children's Center Director Charged In Massive Thefts

PITTSBURGH PA, — A Pittsburgh-area children's learning center director has been charged with stealing more than $800,000 from the business.

The Allegheny County District Attorney's Office announced Tuesday that Sammi Jo Whitaker, 36, of Beechview, was arrested in connection with the thefts from the Creative Minds Learning Center in Castle Shannon.

Whittaker used the center's bank accounts and credit cards to pay for her personal expenses, the District Attorney's Office said. The investigation into her activities began in March.

Whittaker has been charged with two counts of theft by unlawful taking, receiving stolen property, dealing in the proceeds of illegal activity, six counts of forgery, two counts of access device fraud, unlawful use of a computer, criminal attempt and misapplication of entrusted
property.

According to the District Attorney's Office, Whittaker has been with the center since 2012 and has been director since 2016.