CLEARFIELD — Clearfield County District Attorney Ryan Sayers announced today the filing of criminal charges against a former Clearfield County Children, Youth and Family Services caseworker for official oppression and theft by extortion.
Following an investigation by the Pennsylvania State Police, Crystal R. Miller, 39, of DuBois is alleged to have extorted money and attempted to extort other financial benefits from her clients when she was working in her official capacity as a caseworker for Clearfield County CYS.
These families under her supervision believed they would not retain custody of their children or have their children taken away if they did not give Miller the requested funds or financial benefits.
“The duty and responsibility of a CYS caseworker is to ensure the safety of children in Clearfield County,” said Sayers.
“However, Ms. Miller abused this position of power by requesting money and asking for co-signers on loans from the families that she was supervising. This is a troubling betrayal of the authority that we, as public servants, are entrusted with on a daily basis.
“Today’s charges are a reminder that no one is above the law, and that everyone who serves the public is accountable to the people.
“Additionally, I would like to thank the Pennsylvania State Police for their hard work and timely investigation in regards to this matter.”
The Clearfield County Commissioners stated that, “We are shocked and saddened by this situation. As soon as we were made aware of these allegations, the matter was referred to the District Attorney, and CYS leadership was directed to conduct an internal review of policies and procedures.
“We have found no evidence that this involved any county employee other than Ms. Miller. Ms. Miller is no longer an employee of the county.
“We wish to reassure the public that we will continue to evaluate our procedures and that the safety and security of Clearfield County children will always be our #1 priority.
“We thank DA Sayers and the Pennsylvania State Police for their prompt investigation.”
If anyone believes that have information about this matter that law enforcement should be made aware of, they are asked to contact the Clearfield-based Pennsylvania State Police at 814-857-3800.
All charges are accusations, and the defendant is presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty.