Couple pleads guilty to stealing from monks

BARDSTOWN, Ky. (AP) — The former accountant for a central Kentucky abbey has pleaded guilty to stealing more than $1 million from the monastery.

Josh E. Hutchins entered the plea to charges of theft and unlawful access to a computer Friday morning in Nelson Circuit Court. His wife, Carrie Lee Hutchins, pleaded guilty to a misdemeanor theft count.

Multiple media outlets reported that Hutchins agreed to a 20-year prison sentence. Carrie Hutchins will get a 12-month sentence, conditionally discharged after two years.

The Hutchinses must make restitution of $600,000 to the Abbey of Gethsemani and forfeit $42,000 seized from their bank account as well as their home, two vehicles, two widescreen TVs, six watches and exercise equipment.

Judge Charles Simms set sentencing for Dec. 17.

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