“I can’t understand how she got involved in this,” he added.

McGarvey said he anticipates introducing medical and psychological testimony at her sentencing hearing that may “go somewhat to explain her situation.”

The attorney suggested Harris may be afflicted with kleptomania, a serious mental health disorder whose symptoms include the inability to refrain from the urge to steal items for reasons other than personal use or financial gain.

McGarvey said Harris didn’t use the stolen money to buy expensive vehicles or homes, and is in a position to pay back $250,000 of the $871,000 she took. McGarvey said Harris, who is free on bond, has been unable to get another job but has continued with her volunteer work.

Fierro said he was not aware of any of the money being repaid. The court will likely enter a restitution order when she is sentenced later this year.

Ronald Milligan, Virginia Physician’s chief operating officer, said the company has hired an outside attorney to assist with recovering any funds that might be available, and three lawsuits have been filed against Harris in civil court in furtherance of that effort.