Former Clinton school accountant pleads guilty

DAVENPORT, Iowa (AP) — A former Clinton school district business office supervisor has pleaded guilty to embezzling more than $1 million.

Denisa Babcock was accused of stealing cash and checks and depositing them into her personal accounts. Court records show she purchased luxury vehicles, a boat and a house with the money.

WQAD-TV in Moline, Ill., says the checks included a memorial fund honoring a teacher who died. The fund was to be used for student scholarships.

She pleaded guilty Wednesday in U.S. District Court in Davenport to one count of theft from a government agency receiving federal funds.

Babcock faces 10 years in prison and a $250,000 fine when she’s sentenced Aug. 12.

Prosecutors also are seeking to seize Babcock’s assets. The school district’s insurance carrier has agreed to pay two $500,000 claims.