GREAT FALLS – A former Cascade County Sheriff’s Office accountant has pleaded guilty to taking money from the Sheriff’s Office while employed there.
Michelle Levesey Woods, also known as Michele Levesey Saubak, entered a guilty plea in federal court on January 24 to an indictment for “theft from a program receiving federal funding.”
She also pleaded “true” to a forfeiture allegation.
According to court documents, Woods worked as an accountant and instead of depositing money as required, she stole money to use for personal expenses including gambling.
Court documents state Woods embezzled more than $31,000 total. It carries up to 10 years imprisonment, a $250,000 fine, and three years supervised release.
Her sentencing is scheduled for May 2.
According to Cascade County Attorney Josh Racki, the investigation into Woods is separate from the CCSO investigation announced in December.
The December investigation is currently under review and no charges have been filed, according to the Montana Attorney General’s Office.
