In a shocking turn of events, Chanell Easton, the wife of a former police chief, has been sentenced to five years and one month in prison for embezzling over $360,000 from St. Andrew Presbyterian Church in Yuba City, California. Easton, 38, pleaded guilty to 22 counts of wire fraud and was also found guilty on two counts of aggravated theft.
The Embezzlement Scheme
From 2013 to 2018, Easton used church credit cards to fund personal expenses, including vacations, concert tickets, and luxury items. She also forged signatures to write checks to herself, effectively siphoning off funds meant for the church's youth ministry and other charitable activities. The stolen amount represents nearly half of the church's annual donations.
Destruction of Evidence
In an attempt to cover her tracks, Easton destroyed the church's financial records and disposed of her work computer, making it difficult for investigators to determine the full extent of her embezzlement. Her husband, Aaron Easton, who resigned as police chief amid a separate investigation, was implicated in helping her destroy evidence.
Sentencing and Remorse
During the sentencing, Easton expressed deep regret for her actions, citing a troubled upbringing and emotional abuse as factors that influenced her behavior. Despite pleas from her two sons for leniency, U.S. District Judge John A. Mendez handed down the sentence, emphasizing the gravity of her crimes.
Easton is scheduled to return to court in November to determine the amount of restitution she must pay.
This case serves as a stark reminder of the importance of financial oversight and accountability, even within trusted community institutions.
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