Sentence is handed down in La Verne softball embezzlement

From Daniel Tedford at the San Gabriel Valley Tribune:

POMONA - A woman who pleaded guilty to embezzling funds from the La Verne Girls Softball Association was sentenced at the Pomona Courthouse Friday, said Los Angeles County District Attorney's office officials.

Christine Lopez, 39, of Pomona, worked as a treasurer on the league's board. As part of a plea deal, Lopez received the recommended sentence of 30 days in county jail and three years probation. Lopez also will have to do 120 days of community service and will pay $20,000 in restitution.

She paid $10,000 of that restitution at a Nov. 13 court date when she accepted the deal.

Lopez was taken into custody immediately following today's hearing and will serve her sentence as straight time, Lopez's attorney Edgar Diaz said. She was credited with one day served.

Deputy District Attorney Duke Chau consulted with the softball association as well as detectives to determine the specifics of the plea deal, Chau said.

Lopez was arrested Jan. 8 by La Verne police and a case was filed with the district attorney's office over summer.

Staff writer Will Bigham contributed to this report.