DAVENPORT, IA (IRN) – The former executive director of an Iowa nonprofit that promotes healthy, affordable school meals allegedly embezzled at least $169,000 over a 5-year period.
A state audit report released today says Norma LaMantia admitted to depositing checks meant for the School Nutrition Association of Iowa in personal bank accounts. LaMantia says the money helped pay her personal expenses and support her addiction to casino gambling.
DES MOINES, IA (IRN) – A woman who used her role at a Des Moines church to embezzle thousands of dollars will have to pay back the money. KCCI-TV reports Carol Padgett was accused of taking almost $60,000 from Unity Lutheran Church. The former church treasurer was sentenced Wednesday. In exchange for a suspended sentence Padgett received probation and community service. She will also have to pay back restitution to the church.
IOWA FALLS, IA (IRN) – A 6-year-old boy is in critical condition at a Des Moines hospital after a semitrailer hit him in Iowa Falls Wednesday. The Iowa State Patrol says the semi-truck was driving through town and the boy was struck near the rear tires.
MASON CITY, IA (IRN) – A suspect in a stabbing in Mason City Tuesday is now wanted on an attempted murder warrant. Police are looking for 20-year-old Braedon Bowers. Officials say he stabbed a 23-year-old man in the chest.
MARION, IA (IRN) – The Iowa Fire Marshal’s office has posted an online application for retailers who want to sell consumer-grade fireworks to customers in Iowa. Sales of consumer fireworks starts today for retailers using permanent buildings and June 13 for retailers under tents or temporary structures. Rules regarding the actual use of fireworks vary by city or county.
DUBUQUE, IA (IRN) – A Dubuque Special Olympian has been named the top female athlete in Iowa, according to KWWL-TV. 30-year-old Katie Stephan, who was born with spina bifida, has been competing in the Special Olympics since 7th grade. The multi-sport athlete competes in bocce ball, bowling, and track and field. When asked how she feels about winning the award, Stephan said, “It just feels out of this world awesome.”