Florida Woman Alleged To Have Stolen At Least $1.2 Million From Sheriff's Department

Catherine "Cathy" Diane Lister, 58, of Pensacola, Florida, is suspected of misappropriating at least $1.2 million from the Escambia County Sheriff's Office, where she has been a long-time finance unit employee, responsible, in part, for handling seized cash. Lister was arrested last month on larceny charges and when only $140,000 was believed to have been stolen. As the investigation has continued, that estimate has increased dramatically and authorities believe Lister's scheme, which apparently involved taking cash meant for the department's evidence trust fund account, spanned at least 10 years. She reportedly admitted to the thefts during interviews with investigators. Lister reportedly "retired" in January after 32 years with the department.

Read the story here and here.

Update (7/20/10): Lister was found guilty of one count of aggravated white collar crime and 11 counts of money laundering in connection with her embezzlement of what is now believed to be $1.4 million. She blamed her actions in part on gambling.

Update 2: Lister was sentenced to 15 years in prison.