Woman gets probation in Gurnee employer theft

A Kenosha, Wis., woman was placed on probation for two years Friday after admitting she stole $22,000 from her Gurnee employer.

Sabrina Salazar, 30, was also ordered to pay back all of the stolen money during her probation and to perform 100 hours of community service.

Lake County Assistant State's Attorney Ari Fisz said Salazar was the office manager for Multi Metal Products of Gurnee from February 2006 until she was fired on July 24 of last year.

Fisz said an internal audit of company records uncovered that Salazar had written several checks to herself and recorded them as bonus and vacation pay payments.

Company officials told police Salazar had paid herself $22,000 she was not due over the years of her employment.

Circuit Judge Fred Foreman also ordered Salazar to complete any substance abuse or mental health counseling program recommended by her employer.

Fisz said Salazar could have faced up to five years in prison if convicted after a trial.