The former president and CEO of Make-A-Wish Iowa pleaded guilty to stealing thousands of dollars from the charity that aims to “grant life-changing wishes” to critically ill children.
Jennifer Woodley, 40, pleaded guilty to two counts of first-degree theft and one count of fraudulent practices, all of which are felonies. Her guilty plea was accepted by Judge Scott Beattie of Judicial District 5 on Tuesday.
OBAMA-ERA WHITE HOUSE ADVISER ARRESTED AND CHARGED WITH STEALING FROM CHARTER SCHOOL HE CREATED
She admitted to making unauthorized charges on a foundation credit card, giving herself an unapproved bonus and salary increases, and making false entries into foundation records. Woodley embezzled over $40,000, a charging document alleged.
She turned herself in to the authorities in January.
Prosecutors will recommend that Woodley serve five years probation along with paying any fines and restitution associated with the crimes per the plea agreement.
CLICK HERE TO READ MORE FROM THE WASHINGTON EXAMINER
A sentencing hearing was scheduled for July 20. Woodley’s attorney, Nicholas Sarcone, plans to ask for deferred judgment at that hearing, he said. If granted, the crimes would be expunged from her record, provided that she completes her probation and other requirements of the plea agreement.
The theft began in 2019, shortly after Woodley became president and CEO of the Iowa organization. Her crimes were discovered in 2020 by the company during an internal compliance review.
