Repeat embezzler sentenced in theft from Portland church

PORTLAND, Ore. (AP) — A woman with a history of theft will serve prison time in the embezzlement of more than $73,000 from a Portland church.

The Oregonian/OregonLive reports (http://bit.ly/2hf6Sug) 63-year-old Christine Marie Culver has to repay money taken as part of her three-year prison sentence.

She said Friday during sentencing that she was sexually and emotionally abused as a child, and that she has low self-esteem.

Culver said she spent the church’s money on herself and gifts for friends.

She previously spent 13 months in prison after being convicted on charges in the embezzlement of $225,000 from the city of Molalla, where she worked.

Prosecutor Ryan Lufkin said it’s typically unusual for offenders to repeat these types of crimes.

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Information from: The Oregonian/OregonLive, http://www.oregonlive.com