Woman avoids jail in $73,000 theft

Woman avoids jail in $73,000 theft
By Daryl Slade, Calgary Herald

The former general manager of the nonprofit Canadian Craft and Hobby Association will not have to spend time in jail for stealing $73,786 to feed a gambling addiction.

Elizabeth Alma Ludwig, 50, on Friday was handed an 18-month conditional jail sentence to be served in the community after pleading guilty to fraud and uttering forged documents.

Provincial court Judge John Bascom said the theft was significant because Ludwig was in a position of trust when she committed the crimes.

However, Bascom noted the offender had paid restitution of $40,340 and provided postdated cheques for the outstanding balance to be paid over six years.

Earlier, Crown prosecutor Brian Kiers, who had sought jail time for Ludwig, told court that Ludwig issued 72 cheques to herself between Jan. 12, 2004, and Sept. 20, 2006.

He said she forged the treasurer's signature on 65 of them and caused the treasurer to sign the seven remaining cheques under false pretences.

Ludwig must also take counselling for gambling and other issues.