Jail stint for Naperville mom who stole from school fund-raisers
The former treasurer of a Naperville parents association must spend 25 days in the DuPage County jail for pilfering $8,477 during fundraising efforts at her children's elementary school.
But in a tearful oratory, an apologetic Lisa S. Landin said Wednesday she'll pay for the crime for the rest of her life.
"I will never be able to get a decent job," said Landin, now a felon. "As my daughter pointed out, she hasn't been invited to a single birthday party this year because of me. Most of all, I have tarnished my good name."
Landin, 40, was sentenced to 30 months' probation and periodic jail time, meaning she may be released during the day to go to work. She must surrender to jail officials July 27.
DuPage Circuit Judge Peter J. Dockery also ordered her to repay the looted funds - much of which will be covered by her forfeited $6,750 bail money.
The judge noted her remorse, restitution and clean criminal past, but he said a message of deterrence needs to be delivered.
"The defendant is remorseful, that is without doubt," Dockery said, "but this is a crime that was committed over a period of time with plenty of time for reflection."
Landin pleaded guilty to felony theft May 27. She faced probation or up to five years in prison.
Prosecutor Helen Kapas-Erdman said Landin served as the Scott School Home and School Association treasurer when she stole the money during nine fundraising events in a 14-month period in the 2007-2008 school year.
"She used her position of trust and authority to help herself - not the kids," said Kapas-Erdman, who heads the office's financial crimes/public integrity unit. "She used (the fund) as her own personal piggy bank. We're not talking about one theft. We are talking about a continuing crime wave."
The group's president, Susan Halford, said she spotted the accounting discrepancies when Landin's term ended and immediately contacted Scott School's principal. An internal audit ensued.
"It's been a very tough year," Halford testified Wednesday. "It's just been a shock to our community but, I do believe, it's a strong group of parents and we'll carry on."
Defense attorney Philip Nathe sought probation. He argued Landin led a law-abiding life before the crime, fully cooperated with police afterward and accepted responsibility in her guilty plea. He said she is in treatment for depression. Several relatives, friends and her church members were in court to show her their support.
Landin asked for forgiveness.
"Maybe then I can forgive myself," she said.