Genesis CEO Bernard to Serve 90 Days In Jail

Monday, April 20, 2009

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Andres Araiza
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Fresno, CA (KFSN) -- A local CEO will spend the first part of her summer in jail. Elaine Bernard learned her punishment today after she was caught violating her probation.

Bernard was facing time in prison for violating her probation. Instead, a judge sentenced her to one year in jail. The CEO will spend only three months in custody because she received credit for time served on a work furlough program. We also learned Bernard plans to resign.

Emotions overwhelmed Bernard when her attorney announced: the CEO will be leaving genesis family care. Bernard was convicted of stealing thousands from the nonprofit and sentenced to probation, but a local magazine published a photograph of Bernard, showing her at a downtown reception in February.

Judge John Vogt specifically ordered Bernard not to attend any social functions. The judge said the photograph was a clear violation of his orders. Vogt said, "When I found her to be in violation in probation, it became very clear to me she was not acting in good faith with the probation office."

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Story: Judge Found Genesis CEO Elaine Bernard Violated Her Probation

On Monday, Judge Vogt sentenced Bernard to one year in jail despite the prosecutor asking for prison time. Her family and Genesis representatives left the hearing without talking to the media. Bernard's Attorney Scott Quinlan calls the punishment fair, "She's taking it hard. I think she learned her lesson weeks ago and now she is going to be continuing to learn."

The chairperson of Genesis's board confirms that they are expecting Bernard to resign as CEO. No time table has been announced for Bernard to leave the nonprofit, but her attorney said she will be stepping down in the immediate future.