Justice Prevails In Radio Fraud Case
Here’s what happened: Bitis (NOT pictured) served as VP/GM of LIRB — which includes Triple A simulcast 92.9/96.9 WEHM/WEHN, AC WBAZ and Top 40 WBEA (101.7 The Beach) from 2015-2017. Following several years of lackluster financial results, she was terminated. A suspicious wire transfer later caused LIRB owner Lauren Stone (pictured, below) to review the company’s American Express statements for the preceding six months. After noticing several charges that appeared fraudulent, Stone engaged an outside law firm to conduct an investigation into the radio stations’ financials.
Last month, the government charged Bitis with felony Access Device Fraud. At her plea hearing, Bitis finally admitted to her crimes. She is scheduled to be sentenced on March 26, 2021.
Lauren Stone, who in addition to her role as owner is also PD and midday personality on WEHM, said, “These radio stations are a passion — a true labor of love for all of us who work here. I was shocked and saddened that someone would do this to us — especially in such a small, tight-knit community. I’m thankful that justice has been served and that she will not be able to defraud anyone else.” LIRB is grateful for the hard work of the FBI and the U.S. Attorney’s Office in the Eastern District of New York for their investigative efforts in bringing justice to LIRB and all of its loyal listeners.