C. Falls woman pleads guilty to embezzlement

A 46-year-old Columbia Falls woman pleaded guilty to felony theft Thursday in Flathead District Court after embezzling from Whitefish Credit Union while working as a teller.

Between Aug. 7, 2008, and Nov. 2, 2009, Penny Rhine took $11,650 in unauthorized withdrawals from four customers’ accounts. She also created money orders without corresponding accounting.

According to a plea agreement, Rhine faces up to five years in jail or on probation. If the judge decides not to follow the agreement, she could face up to 10 years in jail.

Her sentencing is scheduled for May 31.