Watch CBS News

Woman Accused Of Stealing Gifts From Charity To Use As Christmas Presents

BLOOMINGTON, Ill. (AP) -- Authorities in central Illinois say they've apprehended the Grinch who stole hundreds of gifts from a Bloomington charity and gave some of the presents to family members.

Bloomington Police spokesman Dave White says a 48-year-old Bloomington woman was arrested on preliminary charges Wednesday in connection with the theft of the WJBC Brotherhood Tree presents.

White says investigators tracked her down thanks to tips from Brotherhood Tree volunteers and organizers.

A Bloomington police officer found most of the 220 gifts in the woman's home, although some had already been given away to family members. White says she told officers she wanted her family to have a good Christmas and wasn't able to provide for them.

Coordinator Janae McGrew says she's working to increase security for the charity event next year.

(© Copyright 2012 The Associated Press. All Rights Reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten or redistributed.)

View CBS News In
CBS News App Open
Chrome Safari Continue
Be the first to know
Get browser notifications for breaking news, live events, and exclusive reporting.