ST. JOHNS COUNTY, Fla. — The former finance director of the St. Johns County Sheriff’s Office began serving a seven year prison sentence Tuesday.
Raye Brutnell was arrested in November 2018 amid allegations that she stole hundreds of thousands of dollars from the sheriff's office and its employee benevolence fund. Under a deal reached in May, Brutnell pleaded guilty to two counts of grand theft, one count of scheming to defraud financial institution and one count of criminal use of personal identification information.
In the deal, she agreed to serve a 7-year prison sentence and repay almost $860,000. The deal allowed for less prison time if she paid some restitution before Tuesday, but thus far has not made any payments. She is required to serve a minimum of three years.
Brutnell initially faced 163 charges, but prosecutors reduced that to 11 and agreed to drop 7 as part of the plea deal.
“This has been a sad set of circumstances for everyone. She appreciates the many true friends who have supported her while recognizing she let everyone down,” said Hank Coxe, Brutnell's attorney.
Sheriff Robert released the following statement regarding Brutnell's sentencing:
'“Prior to taking office, I made it one of my main priorities to promote transparency and proper oversight in agency finances. Since taking office, I have implemented new checks and balances to ensure this type of incident never happens again.
"I agree with the outcome in this case. The men and women of the St. Johns County Sheriff’s Office work tirelessly every day to gain and maintain our public’s trust. Through her actions and misconduct, Ms. Brutnell violated this trust which is unacceptable and her sentence is appropriate.”