Former Cass Lake-Bena school treasurer sentenced for theft

WALKER -- A former Cass Lake-Bena School Board member was convicted Tuesday in Cass County Court of theft from the School District in 2008.

Terri L. Vail, 53, of Cass Lake, was sentenced to 30 days home detention with electronic monitoring for one count of felony theft by false representation. Vail has been placed on three years supervised probation and must pay a $50 fine.

Cass County Attorney Christopher Strandlie said if Vail successfully completes her probation the charge will revert to a misdemeanor on her record which is consistent with sentencing guuidelines.

Vail previously agreed to pay a minimum restitution of $6,650. The School District filed an affidavit seeking $23,817.80. The Cass County Attorney's office reported restitution in favor of the Cass Lake-Bena School District was ordered in the amount of $23,817.80.

Theft charges were filed after an internal audit revealed Vail misrepresented her marital status on insurance enrollment forms, which resulted in a financial benefit. Vail was employed by the Cass Lake-Bena School District from 2008 to 2010.

Vail resigned as School Board Treasurer and was placed on leave. She is no longer on the board. A special election will be held to fill her position.

Vail was originally charged with six felony theft charges in January 2008. She plead guilty to one count in July, one day before a jury trial was scheduled to begin.