Man charged in Catholic school scam

BOSTON, Mass. (AP) - A professional fundraiser has been arrested on allegations that he duped officials at a Worcester Catholic school into believing he had a huge donor, prompting the school to proceed with a $3 million renovation project it now cannot afford.

Michael Hlady, of North Scituate, R.I., is charged with larceny and conspiracy. He is accused of accepting more than $370,000 from Venerini Academy for fundraising services.

Authorities allege that the 37-year-old Hlady made up the prospective donor, leading the school to begin work on the renovation.

Now, the school is facing lawsuits from contractors who have not been paid.

Attorney General Martha Coakley was expected to outline details of the charges at a news conference Thursday.