Former Whitley county auditor Jenny R. McGuire was sentenced to 5.5 years in jail Monday, Feb. 9. However, 18 months of the sentence was suspended by the judge and the remaining four years will be served in work release.

McGuire pleaded guilty to and was convicted of stealing more than $100,000 from the county and more than $25,000 from the Indiana County Auditors Association. She used county credit cards to pay personal bills and buy items for herself including vacations, meals and retail merchandise. She also wrote checks to herself.

McGuire’s attorney argued that the issues began as a result of her husband’s sudden accidental death and the severe depressive disorder that followed. Upon being confronted with accusations, she admitted wrongdoing and immediately resigned.

McGuire has repaid all but approximately $1,500 that is owed to the county and plans to sell her house to repay the Auditors Association. The State Board of Accounts is also seeking reimbursement for the cost of its investigation.

Source: Fort Wayne Journal Gazette