Couple accused of stealing from Pecatonica Fire Protection District sentenced to 180 days

Online Staff Report

Judge Rosemary Collins sentenced both Brenda A. Samuelson, 49, and Donald Samuelson Jr., 57, to 180 days in Winnebago County Jail, four years probation and to pay restitution in the amount of $155,139.76 to Pecatonica Fire Protection District.

The Pecatonica Fire Protection District discovered numerous discrepancies after its 2010 annual audit was completed. The investigation revealed unauthorized disbursements made by their bookkeeper, Brenda Samuelson, to both herself and her husband, Donald Samuelson.

Some of the disbursements included payroll checks payable to Donald Samuelson, who was not employed by the Fire Protection District.

Theft of governmental property in excess of $10,000 not exceeding 100,000 is a Class 1 felony and is punishable by four to 15 years in the Illinois Department of Corrections and two years mandatory supervised release. Conspiracy is a Class 2 felony punishable by three to seven years in the Illinois Department of Corrections and two years mandatory supervised release. Forgery is a Class 3 felony punishable by two to five years in the Department of Corrections and one year mandatory supervised release. All charges are probationable.

Posted Feb. 15, 2013