Madison County Woman Gets Probation After Repaying Stolen Money

A Madison County woman avoided a lengthy prison sentence last week after she repaid money she admitted to stealing from a youth organization.

41-year old Sherry Hawkes of Colbert, paid back the $12,000 she stole from the Madison County Youth Association.

According to their Web site, the group is a private, non-profit organization run by parents and volunteers that helps children from age 5-12 to participate in football and cheerleading.

Hawkes plead guilty in March under the Racketeer Influenced and Corrupt Organizations Act.

Because of she repaid the money, White recommended Hawkes be put on probation and the judge agreed.  Hawkes was sentenced to 15 years probation and ordered to pay another $6,000 in fines.

White said Hawkes took the money over a period of time and used the money to fund vacations, buy food and go to sporting events.