Former state Health Commissioner Antonia Novello is expected to accept a plea deal to fraud-related charges Friday in Albany County Court, the Daily News has learned.Novello, a former U.S. surgeon general who was state health commissioner under former Gov. George Pataki from 1999 through 2006, was charged in a 20-count indictment with using state workers to run errands, take her on shopping sprees and act as house servants.
The 64-year-old, who lives in Florida, was facing up to 12 years in prison if convicted.
She is set to appear before Albany County Judge Stephen Herrick.
Her lawyer, Stewart Jones, did not return a call for comment last night.
A spokeswoman for Albany County District Attorney David Soares had no comment.