Rita Crundwell, the former comptroller of Dixon, Illinois, arrives at the federal courthouse in Rockford for her arraignment on charges she embezzled $53 million from the town since 1990. (Credit: CBS)
CHICAGO (CBS) — Former Dixon comptroller Rita Crundwell wants a public defender to represent her on charges she embezzled millions in public funds.
Crundwell made the request during her first court appearance for the 60-count theft case in Dixon.
It’s separate from the federal case – where she already entered a not guilty plea.
Federal agents seized all of her assets.
Crundwell is accused of stealing more than $53 million over two decades from the town to maintain a lavish lifestyle – including a luxury RV, fancy furniture and hundreds of horses.
