Former University of Missouri worker admits $716K theft

SPRINGFIELD, Mo. -- A former University of Missouri employee admitted in federal court she stole more than $716,000 from the school over nine years.

Carla Rathmann, 54, of Mount Vernon pleaded guilty Monday in Springfield to one count each of mail fraud and credit-card fraud.

Rathmann had worked at the university's Southwest Research Center in Mount Vernon from 2000 to September 2015.

Authorities said an investigation found she had made payments to fake vendors, manipulated her timesheets and made unauthorized cash withdrawals.

Rathmann also admitted she illegally used a university credit card for more than $146,000 in personal expenses.

Rathmann faces up to 30 years in prison without parole. A sentencing date was not set.