Source: CVDaily Feed
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LOGAN — A 44-year-old Hyrum woman has been sentenced to one-year in jail for stealing more than $38,000 from Utah State University, while employed at the Student Health and Wellness Center.
Noell Hansen appeared in 1st District Court Monday after previously pleading guilty to one charge of theft, a second-degree felony and a second charge of forgery, a third-degree felony.
Hansen was originally arrested and charged with shorting bank deposits, intended for the center and keeping the money for personal gain. She was placed on administrative leave after an audit was completed in June 2013. She resigned about two-weeks later.
During Monday’s sentencing, Hansen read a prepared letter to the court saying she was heartbroken and ashamed for what she had done. She also said she knew what she did was wrong and that her actions had ruined her reputation.
Prior to Hansen’s comments, defense attorney Shannon Demler told the court, Hansen had paid back all of the $38,213.18 in restitution. He said she originally took the money at a time when she was struggling financially, thinking that she could pay it back and never did.
State attorney Spencer Walsh told the court since Hansen had paid back the stolen amount, he wasn’t recommending prison although he believed she deserved it. He said a pre-sentence report showed Hansen had a record of embezzling money from previous employers.
Judge Kevin Allen sentenced Hansen to serve one-year in the Cache County Jail and three-years probation. He said he was pleased that she had paid back the stolen money and hoped she continues to change her life.
will@cvradio.com