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John
over 7 years ago

This isn't black or white. Each case should be looked at separately and the circumstances fully considered, such as addictions and mental health issues. We're too quick in this country to dish out harsh punishments for offences of financial impropriety.

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Janice Gemmell
over 7 years ago

Embezzlement is another word for theft. Most charities struggle to obtain funding. The Red Cross is supported by people who want to contribute to humanitarian aid and provide support for those who struggle or are oppressed. Why would a two year jail term be too harsh - people have been jailed for longer for less serious crimes. This individual made a conscious decision to "embezzle" this money , she took that money away from where it was needed therefore there are vulnerable people around the globe who have been denied the support that £360,000 would have given them. She has been living a very comfortable life in a house worth £350,000 at the expense of people less fortunate.

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Norman
over 7 years ago

2 years was not enough. In reply to John a pre-sentence report would have been asked for and the Sheriff would take all the factors into account when sentencing. Financial impropriety is just as serious as other types of crime.

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Common sense
over 7 years ago

Circumstances should have been taken into account, this lady had an addiction that started after the breakdown of her marriage. Previous to this she worked for the Red Cross for 30 plus years with an unblemished record. She then admitted what she did wrong and offered to sell her property and pay back in full. Whilst this is theft there are numerous criminals that have a record as long as your arm that don't get two years and never pay back anything. I agree with John community service or along those lines would have been a better option. She is not going to re offend as would not get a job in that industry again and she is not a danger to society so I do not believe there was any point giving a custodial sentence. Our prisons are over run and the tax payers money should be spent in a much better way like offering counselling for gambling addiction or marriage breakdown.

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RealFreedom
over 7 years ago

If she was male, the sentence would have been around 3 1/2 to 4 years.

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maxxmacc
over 7 years ago

I wonder what sentence the charity embezzler from Edinburgh will get? She stole a similar amount of cash but blamed it on developing an interest in horse-riding, which is a classic excuse! I bet she gets off much more lightly.

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