Originally Posted - June 30, 2006

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OMAHA, NEB---The nun who was the former director of the Omaha Archdiocese's Family Life Office has turned herself into police after a warrant was issued for her arrest.

Sister Barbara Markey faces up to 20 years in prison and $25,000 fine for theft by deception for allegedly using church funds for gambling, gifts and airfare.

Following an audit conducted by diocese, it was alleged that Markey had spent over $307,000 of church funds including $81,000 in cash or cash advances, $67,000 on casinos, $33,000 in gifts, $31,000 on clothing and furniture and $24,000 in travel.

She was fired from her position in January.

Markey has been released on her own recognizance. Her attorney says the charges stem from a disagreement abut the ownership of the FOCCUS marriage preparation program which Markey helped develop. 6-30-06

© 2006 North Country Gazette