Selling embezzler’s assets wasn’t smooth, marshals say

DIXON, Ill. — Federal marshals say selling off Rita Crundwell’s assets wasn’t exactly “smooth sailing.”

The U.S. Marshals Service finished selling the former Dixon comptroller’s belongings this month to raise restitution. Crundwell is serving a federal prison sentence after pleading guilty to stealing more than $53 million from the city over two decades. WNIJ radio reported that estimates show Dixon will recover only about $10 million.

Spokesman Jason Wojdylo says selling Crundwell’s livestock was difficult because of the $1.6 million it cost to care for the animals before they were sold. He says officials believe they have identified all of Crundwell’s assets, but they will continue to search for others. He says the Crundwell case “will never be closed.”