Sentencing reset in embezzlement

SANDPOINT — Sentencing was reset Monday for an Oldtown woman accused of embezzling from her former employer.

Nicole Jody Lynn Love was unable to attend the sentencing hearing because of a medical emergency involving one of her children, according to her defense counsel, Doug Phelps.

Bonner County Deputy Prosecutor Larry Goins declined to elaborate on the circumstances surrounding Love’s absence, citing medically-related privacy concerns.

First District Judge Steve Verby said he would draft a $40,000 arrest warrant, but would not issue it unless Love fails to appear for sentencing on Thursday.

Love, 36, is charged with grand theft for stealing as much as $46,000 from CityServiceValcon in Oldtown. The thefts occurred in 2010, when Love was the fuel distribution company’s assistant manager.

Love entered an Alford plea to the felony offense, which is punishable by up to 14 years in prison. Under such a plea, a defendant continues to maintain their innocence while conceding they could be convicted if the matter went to trial.

Alford pleas, which are treated no differently than a standard plea of guilt at sentencing, also enable a defendant to enter into a plea agreement.

An agreement in Love’s case proposes a suspended prison term of two to five years, at least three months in jail and five years of probation. The terms of the agreement, however, are not binding upon the court.

Although Love insists in her written plea agreement she stole only $2,500, she has agreed to pay $25,000 in restitution, according the pretrial settlement agreement.

Love is free on her own recognizance while the case is pending.