Reyes convinced one victim to transfer $107,000 to her over six months by fabricating stories of personal crises, such as her mother’s illness and her own suicide attempt. She used the money for gambling and even attended events like a Taylor Swift concert in Sydney and a Yankees game in New York.
Although Reyes claimed to have sought help from the Problem Gambling Foundation and had insight into her wrongdoing, Judge Denise Clark found her guilty of three charges of obtaining by deception. Reyes had taken a total of $112,000 from her colleagues.
Despite repaying all her victims and showing signs of rehabilitation, Reyes couldn’t avoid a conviction. Judge Clark acknowledged Reyes’ efforts to turn her life around but emphasized that overcoming gambling addiction would be a long journey.
Reyes’ actions not only impacted her victims but also jeopardized her nursing career. While Judge Clark believed that a conviction on Reyes’ record was a suitable punishment, she emphasized the need for continued efforts to combat addiction.
By Belinda Feek
