A Port Byron man has been sentenced after admitting to defrauding an Auburn drug and alcohol recovery organization.
38-year-old Justin Pendleton was sentenced Tuesday in Cayuga County Court to five years of probation after pleading guilty to first-degree falsifying business records, a Class E felony.
According to Auburn Police, Pendleton submitted fraudulent time sheets while working as a peer support advocate for Cayuga County Jail inmates through Nick’s Ride 4 Friends. Investigators said he collected more than $2,800 in unauthorized pay over a five-month period before the fraud was discovered in July 2025.
Pendleton was originally charged with fourth-degree grand larceny and first-degree falsifying business records. He pleaded guilty to the falsifying business records charge on May 26.
In addition to five years of probation, Pendleton paid $2,850.75 in restitution.
During sentencing, Cayuga County Chief Assistant District Attorney Christopher Valdina said the case was especially disappointing because Pendleton took advantage of an organization that had given him an opportunity and provides an important service to the community. Valdina also expressed hope that Pendleton benefits from probation.
