LAS VEGAS (AP) – A judge has ordered the release of a Las Vegas woman who pleaded guilty to felony theft but is now invoking a little-used state law that allows gambling addiction treatment instead of prison.
Jerry Nann Meador (METER’) spent more than two years in prison before her conviction was overturned last month by a state court judge who ruled she should get a hearing to determine if she’s eligible for treatment.
Prosecutors have appealed to the state Supreme Court.
They argue there’s no way Meador can ever repay more than $500,000 she admits stealing from the plumbing company where she kept the books for decades.
Meador’s defense attorneys argue she’s a prime candidate for the 2009 state law allowing people with diagnosed gambling addictions to get treatment and pay restitution.
Copyright 2016 The Associated Press.
