Murielle Misczak, the former director of a Brooklyn daycare, was indicted and arrested on Mar. 25 for allegedly embezzling more than $2.75 million in tuition payments over a four-year period. According to federal prosecutors, Misczak directed parents to send their childcare payments to accounts she controlled and then transferred the funds into her personal bank accounts.
The case is significant because it involves alleged financial crimes affecting families who rely on childcare services. Prosecutors say the scheme not only defrauded parents but also jeopardized resources meant for children’s care.
Joseph Nocella, Jr., United States Attorney for the Eastern District of New York, said, “As alleged, Misczak abused her position of authority and betrayed the trust of her employer and daycare families by stealing millions in tuition to fund her own extravagant personal lifestyle. Our Office will vigorously prosecute corrupt individuals like the defendant who seek to enrich themselves at the expense of services for children.”
James C. Barnacle, Jr., Assistant Director in Charge at the Federal Bureau of Investigation’s New York Field Office, said: “Murielle Misczak allegedly stole millions of dollars from parents whose tuition payments were unknowingly funding personal lavish purchases. As the daycare’s former director, Misczak’s alleged embezzlement violated the trust placed in her by her employer and clients. The FBI is dedicated to disrupting corrupt schemes that defraud our city’s families for selfish gain, especially those exploiting childcare services.”
Court documents state that after being promoted from Program Coordinator to Director in 2020, Misczak began diverting funds starting January 2022 through October 2025 by altering accounting records and hiding evidence of theft. She reportedly spent more than $600,000 on travel and entertainment—including over $350,000 on professional wrestling event tickets—and used additional stolen money on luxury goods as well as food delivery and ride sharing services.
The U.S. Attorney's Office handles prosecutions like this one while supporting community outreach efforts according to its official website. The office maintains locations in Brooklyn and Central Islip per its website and represents federal interests across Brooklyn, Queens, Staten Island, Nassau County, and Suffolk County as indicated online. Breon Peace currently serves as United States Attorney as noted by official sources.
Misczak faces up to 20 years in prison if convicted; however all charges are allegations at this stage with presumption of innocence until proven guilty.
