Probation For Gambling Priest

Probation For Gambling Priest

Friday, 13 February 2015

An American priest who stole $240,000 from his parish and associated school to fund a gambling addiction has escaped jail report the Boston Herald.

Father Stephen Gemme was given five years' probabtion and ordered to pay back the stolen money after admitting stealing the cash between 2008 and 2013.

As part of the plea deal, Gemme will also have to speak publically twice a year on the dangers of problem gambling.

The Telegram and Gazette of Worcester quoted the priest as being “deeply ashamed and sorry for the harm I've caused” and asking for “an opportunity to make amends”. Judge Janet Kenton-Walker agreed, with the help and backing of his parishoners proving crucial to her ruling.

"You're a very lucky man because of the support that you have," said Kenton-Walker.



Tags: Law, America