SANTA ROSA Woman convicted of embezzling sentenced

A Santa Rosa woman who was convicted of embezzlement four years ago received a suspended prison term Tuesday after admitting a theft from a new employer.

Patricia Mary Smithson, 47, was ordered to serve six months in county jail and placed on probation.

She pleaded guilty last November to stealing almost $50,000 from Pace Supply, a Santa Rosa plumbing supply business. In 2001, Smithson was convicted of embezzling about $50,000 from Western Kitchen and Bath in Santa Rosa, where she also worked as a bookkeeper. She was on probation in that case when she was arrested last October, according to court records.

Smithson has repaid both victims, Deputy District Attorney Bridget Hannigan said.

On Tuesday, Superior Court Judge Cerena Wong sentenced Smithson to three years and eight months in state prison, but suspended the prison term and placed her on three years' probation.

Smithson must serve six months in jail, but she may be allowed to spend the time in home confinement.

- Steve Hart