LAKE CHARLES, La. -A Lake Charles woman pleaded guilty to stealing more than a quarter of a million dollars from her employer, U.S. Attorney Stephanie A. Finley announced today.
Kristen Brady, 47, of Lake Charles, pleaded guilty before U.S. District Judge Patricia Minaldi to one count of bank fraud. According to the evidence presented at the guilty plea, Brady worked for a Lake Charles rental company as a bookkeeper for 12 years before her employment was terminated in November 2013. It was later discovered that she had forged authorizing signatures on more than 200 checks to her benefit in the company’s name, and in the process, received $255,324.04 of which she was not entitled.
“Criminals should know that we will prosecute those who steal from local businesses," Finley stated. “Brady now will face the consequences of her actions."
Brady faces a maximum penalty of 30 years in prison, five years of supervised release, restitution and a $1 million fine. A sentencing date of Oct. 30, 2014 was set.
The U.S. Secret Service and the Lake Charles Sheriff’s Office conducted the investigation. Assistant U.S. Attorney Howard C. Parker is prosecuting the case.
Source: U.S. Department of Justice, Office of the United States Attorneys
