Oklahoma union embezzler with gambling problem gets probation

June 17--OKLAHOMA CITY -- An admitted embezzler had attempted suicide in hopes her life insurance policy would pay back what she stole, a judge revealed during a sentencing Friday.

"I really didn't think that I deserved to live," Kathleen Marie Smith told the Oklahoma City federal judge during the sentencing.

Smith, the former treasurer of an Oklahoma City labor union for machinists, was ordered Friday to pay more than $20,000 in restitution for stealing organization funds for her personal use. U.S. District Judge Stephen Friot also sentenced her to four years probation and community service.

"I am very sorry for what I've done," she said of her crime. "I never wanted to hurt anyone. ... I want to move forward with my life."

Smith, 54, of Midwest City, was charged last year with embezzlement and theft of union funds. She pleaded guilty in January to the offense.

During the January hearing, the judge mentioned Smith had a gambling problem. At that time, Smith told the judge she no longer gambles.

During Friday's emotional sentencing, defense attorney Brooke Tebow told the judge that Smith voluntarily confessed to her crime at length in a letter sent to the union. The attorney read an excerpt from the letter to the judge.

"I'm sorry for the mess I've created. ... I can't undo what I've done," Smith wrote. "I hope others can learn from my mistakes."

After the excerpt was read, the judge revealed Smith's plan to commit suicide, which he said was mentioned in the letter. After sending the letter, Smith went to a funeral home parking lot in Enid and attempted to overdose on pills, the judge noted. Smith was upset when she woke up to find out the attempt was unsuccessful, the judge said.

Smith has undergone continuous mental health treatment since then, her attorney told the judge.

Prosecutors alleged Smith's offense occurred between November 2010 and December 2012. During that time, Smith was serving as the financial secretary-treasurer for Local Lodge 850, according to prosecutors. The lodge is the Oklahoma City metro division of the International Association of Machinists and Aerospace Workers, according to its Facebook page.

Smith was accused of stealing $11,508 from Local Lodge 850 and $9,262 from the Oklahoma State Council of Machinists. The council works with the lodges throughout the state, according to its Facebook page.

Tebow told the judge both groups have already been compensated by their insurance company. The judge ordered Smith to pay restitution to the insurance company. The defense attorney noted Smith has already paid about $9,000.

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