A 61-year-old woman who stole more than $160,000 from a local plumbing company while working as its bookkeeper is headed to prison.
Darla Juda Campbell, formerly of Bluffton, pleaded guilty Wednesday to breach of trust with fraudulent intent.
“Campbell stole her employer’s money multiple times and used his money as if it were her own,” said Francine Norz of the 14th Circuit Solicitor’s Office, who prosecuted the case.
Campbell spent the money to pay for diet plans, office expenses for her personal coaching business, an online TV streaming service and more.
The thefts from K&K Plumbing bank accounts and occurred from 2012 to 2017. Campbell was scheduled to appear for a sentencing hearing during the December 2018 term of court but failed to show up.
A bench warrant for her arrest was issued. She was later found living in North Fort Myers, Fla.
Circuit Court Judge Carmen T. Mullen sentenced Campbell to 10 years, suspended to serve eight years in prison, and five years’ probation. Campbell must also repay $163,299 in restitution.
Sgt. William Murphy of the Beaufort County Sheriff’s Office assisted with the case’s investigation.
