February 19, 2010
Prosecutors: Woman embezzled to fund makeup habit
Jason Salzenstein READ TIME: 1 MIN.
Prosecutors say a Panhandle woman allegedly embezzled nearly $860,000 from homeowner associations she oversaw in part to fund an expensive Mary Kay Cosmetics habit.
Tina Mitchell allegedly spent a large amount of money on Mary Kay products. Prosecutors say she also bought and sold enough of the makeup to earn one of the company's signature pink Cadillacs.
Mitchell pleaded guilty in Escambia County Circuit Court on Tuesday to numerous counts of money laundering and grand theft.
She told the Pensacola News Journal her behavior resulted from undiagnosed bipolar disorder that made her manic and caused her to steal. Mitchell also apologized for taking money from several homeowners groups.
She faces more than 19 years in prison when sentenced on March 15.
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Jason Salzenstein is a writer and editor; design, image, and marketing consultant; and professional shopper. His work has appeared in numerous national and international publications and he has clients around the world. For more information :: www.JasonSalzenstein.com
