Man Accused of Embezzling From Orphaned Niece, Nephew

A former bank executive has denied allegations he stole more than $268,000 from his niece and nephew who were in his care after their parents died.

William Hartnett of Weymouth pleaded not guilty on Monday in Dedham to embezzlement and larceny charges. He was released on personal recognizance.

Authorities say 45-year-old Hartnett stole money from accounts set up for his niece and nephew, whose parents were killed in a 2009 car crash.

Authorities say the trust funds were set up at Weymouth Bank where Hartnett worked.

The bank called police in 2014 after officials noticed that large amounts of money had been withdrawn from the accounts.

Hartnett's attorney declined to comment on the case but told The Boston Globe that Hartnett remains close with the children in his care.