Woman sentenced for role in extortion
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A West Virginia woman was sentenced to 24 months in prison Wednesday for her role in extorting more than $1 million from a former Bethany College employee.
Rachaelle Marie Weese, 27, of Moundsville, along with her husband, Jason Kirkland Weese, 32, pleaded guilty in June 2014. Jason Weese also pleaded guilty to money laundering.
According to prosecutors, Bethany College cashier Shelly Lough, of Wheeling, exchanged sexually explicit messages and images with Jason Weese. Lough embezzled from the college to pay off Weese and his wife after they threatened to give the images and messages to her husband. The Weeses used a portion of the money to purchase several vehicles, including a 2013 Chevrolet Camaro and sport utility vehicles, and prescription pain medication.
Lough is serving two to 20 years after pleading guilty to embezzlement and falsifying accounts. She pleaded guilty to the charges in February 2014. She worked at the small liberal arts college between July 2011 and May 2013.
Jason Weese was sentenced last year to 63 months in prison for his role in the conspiracy. They are required to make full restitution to Bethany College.