PLACER COUNTY, CA (MPG) - Kerri Avery, 41, of Newcastle was sentenced on January 25th, 2018, for embezzling funds from the Newcastle-Ophir Soccer Club, Mid Placer Little League, Newcastle Parent-Teacher Club, and Lifetime Builders.  Avery pled no contest on October 13th, 2017, to four counts of felony Grand Theft by Embezzlement 487(b)(3) of the Penal Code and admitted special allegations related to the amount of the theft.

Supervising Deputy District Attorney Doug Van Breemen argued that Avery should be sentenced to state prison for the maximum term of 6 years. Van Breemen argued that a maximum state prison sentence was appropriate based on the fact she sought and targeted multiple organizations that were run by parent volunteers, gained their trust, and then schemed to steal large sums of money from them to finance her own lifestyle. Avery is a “predatory embezzler.”   

The Honorable Garen Horst sentenced Avery to 5 years of probation and 364 days in County Jail. The Judge also suspended a 6 year state prison sentence. Under the sentencing, Avery could be sentenced to state prison for the 6 year term only if she violates the terms of her probation. In addition, Avery is restricted from being employed as a bookkeeper in any manner, and must disclose her conviction to any employer or volunteer organization prior to being employed by them or before becoming a volunteer with an organization. Avery was also ordered to pay restitution. A hearing regarding the restitution amount is scheduled for 2/2/18 at 8:30 a.m. in Dept. 13 of the Placer County Superior Court.