For the first time, authorities hinted that Crundwell's thefts may have started even earlier than first thought, as far back as 1988. Previously, prosecutors said the thefts began in December 1990.



U.S. marshals have been working to recoup some of the losses to repay the town, best known as the boyhood home of President Ronald Reagan. So far, they have collected about $11 million from the sale of Crundwell's 400 horses, ranch, personal property, a luxury motor home and other vehicles, and expect about $10 million to ultimately be returned to Dixon coffers.



"There was trust that the city of Dixon placed in Rita Crundwell. … You can trust but you have to verify, and I think that's the lesson for other municipalities, governments," Assistant U.S. Atty. Joseph Pedersen told reporters at the Rockford courthouse after the sentencing.



Burke said he was pleased to see Crundwell immediately taken into custody but said the sentencing was also emotional, "knowing her all these years and (to) think what a tragedy this whole thing is not only for the city but for her also."



The mayor also questioned the sincerity of Crundwell's apology, saying, "I think her conscience didn't bother her at all."



Crundwell still faces 60 state charges of felony theft, each of which carries a potential sentence of up to 30 years in prison on conviction. That case is due back in court in Lee County on March 4.