(File photo/ larongeNOW Staff)

By Nigel Maxwell

Fraud

Former head of northern Sask. special needs program, accused of stealing over $120,000

Jan 4, 2021 | 4:00 PM

A former executive director of NorthSask.Special Needs Program Inc., a non-profit organization in La Ronge, that assists individuals with disabilities, is facing a handful of serious charges related to her time spent with the organization.

Deri Ann Ratt, 36, was arrested on Sept. 24 and charged with fraud over $5,000, possession of stolen property, and breach of trust. According to court records, she made her first court appearance on Nov. 30.

NorthSask Special Needs (NSN) operates a day program in La Ronge, and manages residential care units for cognitively disabled adults. The non-profit organization acts as a service delivery agent for programs funded by the health region.

According to a statement on the Saskatchewan Health Authority’s website, NSN works to provide enhanced opportunities for people with disabilities to have safe and appropriate housing, meaningful employment, and rewarding recreational activities.

When paNOW reached out to the NSN for comment, a statement was provided by email, and stated Deri-Ann Ratt was no longer employed by NorthSask Special Needs.

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“NorthSask Special Needs is aware this matter is before the courts and is confident in the fair administration of justice,” the statement said.

The statement also indicated NorthSask Special Needs was cooperating fully and transparently with their funder and the authorities regarding this matter.

“NorthSask Special Needs will continue to focus our efforts on working closely with our clients, communities, staff and funders to provide sustainable and quality services that meet the needs of the individuals, families and communities we are committed to serving.”

While it’s unclear how long Ratt worked for NSN, she spoke with larongeNOW as recently as Sept.10, 2019, when she discussed a break-in that had occurred involving computers, laptops, tablets.

Ratt, who is not in custody, is scheduled to make her next appearance at La Ronge Provincial Court on Jan. 11.

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nigel.maxwell@jpbg.ca

On Twitter: @nigelmaxwell