Danielle Smith turned herself into Manhattan authorities Tuesday, after flying herself from California to New York to face embezzlement charges.
Smith, 45, donned in a frumpy wool coat, black glasses and winter scarf, plead ‘not guilty’ to 1st degree grand larceny charges. As a music executive for Warner Music’s Atlantic Records, based in Manhattan, Smith would scout and sign artists and handle their travel arrangements, in addition to their lodging. She allegedly used the corporate credit card, to fund her lavish lifestyle, including vacations, luxury goods and personal charges, totaling $1.3 million over the span of 4 years. Smith resigned in 2011 after an investigation in the credit card purchases were investigated. Her lawyer, Scott Leemon, has represented rappers 50 Cent and Jim Jones.
In 2012, Smith was named one of “Hollywoods Power Women” by the Hollywood Reporter, for being a top fundraiser for the Obama 2012 presidential campaign. For his re-election bid, Smith raised between $200,000-$500,000 for the president.
Smith is currently being held on a $1 million dollar bond. Her mother has agreed to put up her retirement fund for her daughter’s bail.