KETV
February 16, 2007
http://www.ketv.com/news/11034453/detail.html
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Omaha, Neb. — The Omaha priest charged with embezzling $127,000 from his church pleaded guilty to the crime on Friday.
The Rev. Stephen Gutgsell was charged with theft by deception after more than $100,000 was reported missing from St. Patrick's Parish. Gutgsell turned himself in to police this week after reaching a plea deal with prosecutors.
"On behalf of Father Gutgsell, he'd just like to say he's ashamed of his conduct. He knows he was wrong and he's asking forgiveness from his parishioners and the church," the priest's attorney, Jim Schaeffer, said.
Schaeffer said the money went to pay off credit cards. He said Gutgsell himself told the Omaha Archdiocese about the theft last month after parishioners started questioning the church's financial state. He resigned and turned himself in to police.
St. Patrick's parishioner Tom Cooney and Bill Gaughan showed up at the Douglas County Courthouse to show support.
"When someone's maybe down you got to try to help make things work out best for the future," Cooney said.
"We all make mistakes in life, you know? No one's perfect, and I believe Father Gutgsell deserves another chance," Gaughan said.
Gutgsell's attorney said the missing money will be paid back. Supporters of the priest have offered to help, and a fund for the church has been established.
Previous Stories:
• February 14, 2007: Priest Hears Charges Against Him
• February 12, 2007: Priest To Plead Guilty To Theft By Deception
• February 5, 2007: Church Moves Forward After Embezzlement Suspicion
• February 2, 2007: Archdiocese: $100K Missing, Priest Resigns
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