Woman admits thefts from Alabama Baptist group

DOTHAN, Ala. - A Dothan woman who pleaded guilty to stealing $8,000 from a Baptist group where she worked is now charged with taking even more.

The Dothan Eagle reports 52-year-old Tonya Renee Woodward pleaded guilty Wednesday to 10 charges of stealing from the Columbia Baptist Association over a four-month period.

She was freed on bond, but authorities arrested her a few hours later on charges of stealing an additional $130,000 from the association over a four-year period.

Dothan police originally arrested the woman in October 2012, and District Attorney Doug Valeska says the other charges are new.

The prosecutor says the woman told police the devil made her take the money.

A defense attorney says he's disappointed he wasn't informed of the new charges before his client pleaded guilty.

Upcoming Events