The state’s former health commissioner has taken a plea deal to avoid jail time.

Antonia Novello pled guilty to felony fraud-related charges this morning.

She was ordered to perform 250 hours of community service and must pay $22,500 in restitution. However, Novello is allowed to keep her physician’s license.

Last month, she plead not guilty after being indicted on 20 counts that she defrauded the state by forcing Department of Health employees to do her chores, including helping her go on shopping sprees and chauffeuring her to and from airports.

The state inspector general says her actions cost the state nearly $50,000. But Novello’s lawyer says the case was politically motivated.

She faced up to 12 years in prison.

Novello served as the state health commissioner from 1999 to 2006. She previously served as the surgeon general from 1990 to 1993 under President George H. W. Bush.

Source: NY1