The U.S. Marshals Service on Friday gave what could be the last public glimpse inside the homes of a disgraced former comptroller who stole $53 million from a northern Illinois city.
Authorities are auctioning off property through Saturday that belongs to Rita Crundwell, who admitted stealing from Dixon to fund a lavish lifestyle. She pleaded guilty last month and will be sentenced in February.
The first tour Friday was of a two-story, 3,000-square-foot house on 40 acres of land in the countryside south of Dixon surrounded by farm fields. Inside, the home has granite countertops, wood floors and stainless steel appliances.
Crundwell built the home in 2005 but never lived there. She leases the house and the land to family members. Later Friday authorities plan a tour of the home and ranch where Crundwell lived.
The contents of the houses also being auctioned online, including furnishings, artwork, appliances and electronics. Crundwell owned five properties, including a home in Florida and four in the Dixon area.
Jason Wojdylo, a chief inspector with the Marshal Service's forfeiture division, said liquidating Crundwell's assets into cash will bring authorities "closer to easing our responsibility." Crundwell's plea agreement requires her to pay full restitution.
Next year authorities plan an online auction of Crundwell's jewelry with an estimated value of about $500,000.
So far, the government has raised about $7.4 million from the sale of Crundwell's horses, luxury motor home, vehicles and other equipment.
Rita Crundwell's Homes Up For Auction
Ex-Dixon comptroller's homes to be auctioned off
Copyright AP - Associated Press
