Woman admits embezzling thousands from Va church

ISLE OF WIGHT, Va. (AP) - A former secretary has admitted embezzling more than $300,000 from a Smithfield church.

Debra Lee Epps pleaded guilty Thursday in Wight Circuit Court to eight counts of embezzlement and one count each of forging and uttering checks. The 51-year-old Epps apologized to the congregation of Christ Episcopal Church.

Commonwealth’s Attorney Wayne Farmer says Epps took the money over a 10-year period beginning in 1998.

Farmer says Epps told investigators she used the money to pay school tuition and credit card debt, and to pay for horseback riding lessons and her family’s annual trip to Florida.

Epps faces up to 180 years in prison when she’s sentenced July 7.

http://www.wnct.com/nct/lifestyles/faith_values/article/woman_admits_embezzling_thousands_from_va_church/36715/