Accused Embezzler's Case Continued until September

An attorney for Oak Forest resident Michelle Sopko requested this week that a judge continue her case until September. Sopko is accused with her husband of embezzling $350,000 from a Palos Heights Fire Protection District.

Michelle Sopko is charged with felony theft, conducting a financial crimes enterprise and forgery. She appeared brieflyat a status hearing before Cook County Circuit Court Judge John Hynes at the Bridgeview courthouse.

It’s believed that Sopko will plead guilty in an agreement with prosecutors.

Sopko and husband Charles are accused of swindling roughly $350,000 from the district, from 2009 through 2012. Both are currently under house arrest, though the husband’s restrictions were lightened slightly earlier this month.

Charles Sopko, Oak Forest’s former deputy fire chief, faces charges of felony theft, conducting a financial criminal enterprise and forgery.

Sopko was removed as Oak Forest Deputy Fire Chief, but still holds the rank of lieutenant. Aldermen last month voted 4-2 to reinstate his pay at that level; he has yet to return to active duty.

>>via Sun-Times Media