Story by Beaver County Radio News Staff. Published July 31, 2026 8:25 A.M.

(New Brighton, Pa) Merrick Art Gallery’s former director is facing charges for allegedly stealing close to $120,000.

Michelle Mary Long, 75, of Rochester was charged by the New Brighton Area police on July 27 for theft by not making required deposits, theft by deception, and forgery and illegal use of a debit card.

She was released without bail.

Long served as the director of the gallery from 2019 until 2025.

According to police documents, an accounting review revealed that Long made $83,779 in cash withdrawals that were not properly documented and included buying $6,783 in personal items.

Long was also accused of adding $35,816 in compensation to herself.

The report states that Long also forged the signature of a now deceased board trustee on some of the checks.