BUTTE, Mont. — A Butte woman accused of embezzling more than $16,500 from an elementary school’s parent-teacher organization fund has received a deferred sentence.
Amber Lee Moore, 41, pleaded guilty to felony theft of property exceeding $5,000. Judge Frank Joseph sentenced her to a 6-year deferred imposition of sentencing.
Moore, the former president of the Whittier Elementary PTO, admitted to withdrawing funds on multiple occasions between November 2022 and January 2024. Her actions included depositing multiple checks into her personal bank account and using the PTO credit card for personal expenses.
The prosecution recommended a 5-year suspended sentence, citing aggravating factors and Moore’s lack of employment. However, Judge Joseph sided with the defense, noting Moore’s immediate accountability and her role as a caretaker for four children while her husband works.
Moore apologized in court, saying, “What I did was stupid… I want to be able to make this right and have the opportunity to accomplish something later in life without this on my record.”
Judge Joseph warned her, “You’re gonna be loose in the community. The question is whether you’ll pay the full restitution. If you don’t, there will be consequences.”
Moore, who has no prior criminal record, is ordered to repay $16,555 with a minimum monthly payment of $200.
