Warrant issued for ex-employee accused of embezzling more than $253,000 from Catholic church in Del City

DEL CITY — An arrest warrant has been issued for a former church employee accused of embezzling more than $253,000 from St. Paul the Apostle Catholic Church in Del City.

Darla Dee Bralley, 56, of Newcastle, was fired in January after the alleged embezzlement was detected and investigated, said Diane Clay, director of communications for the Archdiocese of Oklahoma City.

"Insurance will cover the funds and an outside accounting firm has established improved financial practices at the parish to reduce the chances of such a crime from happening in the future,” Clay said.

Bralley worked for the church as an administrative assistant and bookkeeper, Del City police said.