Nation IN BRIEF : NEW YORK : Charity’s Ex-Leader Admits Stealing

The longtime head of a national Parkinson’s disease charity pleaded guilty to stealing more than $1 million intended for research to combat the degenerative brain disorder. Frank Williams, former executive director of the Staten Island-based American Parkinson’s Disease Assn., faces as many as 10 years in prison and a $500,000 fine on charges of mail fraud and tax evasion. As part of a plea agreement, Williams, 54, said he would pay restitution, although officials say they have not determined what Williams did with the money. Sentencing is set for May 24. Williams headed the association for 14 years before he resigned in April. He was arrested six months later, after charity staffers noticed that money was missing and hired an investigator.