A Brightwaters woman has been sentenced to three to six years in prison for stealing over $230,000 from her employer.

Christa Ramos, 57, was accused of writing checks to herself while working as an office manager handling bills at a small Deer Park business between 2018 and 2023.

The Suffolk County District Attorney’s Office says she deposited the checks into her personal bank account and used the funds for her own expenses.

She also reported being unemployed to the Department of Labor and collected insurance benefits despite being a full-time worker.

Her role managing the company’s mail allowed her to hide the illegal collection of benefits. Prosecutors say she stole a total of $40,000 in taxpayer funds.

In April, Ramos pleaded guilty to multiple counts of grand larceny and offering a false instrument for filing.

“Stealing from a small business is an attack on our local economy and the communities these businesses support,” said District Attorney Ray Tierney in a press release announcing the sentencing. “My office will continue to ensure that those who exploit small businesses for personal gain are held responsible.”