A church bishop's plea for leniency helps persuade a judge not to send a former church employee to prison for stealing $20,000.Beverly Rezendes got probation and community service instead, though she could go to prison for two years if she doesn't meet those terms.
Prosecutors say the 62-year-old former employee at St. Mary Church in Stonington stole $20,000 in parishioners' donations. Rezendes has repaid $16,000.
Norwich Roman Catholic Diocese Bishop Michael Cote asked the judge in a letter for leniency, saying they've forgiven Rezendes and know she is remorseful.
Rezendes, who'd pleaded guilty to larceny, says she used the money for taxes and medical bills after her husband fell ill.
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