Ridley schools worker sentenced for embezzling

0 Comments | Philadelphia Inquirer, The, March, 2008 | by Jonathan Mattise Inquirer Staff Writer

A former Ridley School District worker was sentenced Tuesday to four to 20 years in prison for stealing more than $570,000 from the district in the last six years to fuel her gambling problem. Carol Ackley, 58, the district's former payroll coordinator, deposited $573,792.71 intended for retired district workers' health care into a private account, Delaware County Deputy District Attorney Gregory Hurchalla said.

The Swarthmore resident spent the money gambling in Las Vegas, Chester and Atlantic City, according to court papers. Delaware County Court Judge James Nilon also sentenced Ackley to eight years' probation and to repay $630,000, factoring in interest lost on the stolen money. "She abused her position of trust to fund her lifestyle," Hurchalla said. Defense attorney...