Woman admits stealing $14K from Crystal Lake McDonald's

WOODSTOCK – A former McDonald’s assistant manager was sentenced to intensive probation Wednesday after she admitted that she took about $14,000 from the restaurant safe.

But Judge Joseph Condon warned Jenntry L. Duddleston, 22, that prison was the next logical step because she had two prior theft charges.

“You are standing at the front door of the Illinois Department of Corrections,” Condon said. “... Keep that in mind and keep your daughter in mind the next time you feel like putting your hands on other people’s belongings.”

Duddleston, of 311 Burr Ave., Pistakee Highlands, pleaded guilty to burglary and theft. Authorities said she and two others used her keycard Oct. 8, 2007, to take money from the safe at McDonald’s, 7617 Northwest Highway, Crystal Lake.

Prosecutors asked Condon to sentence her to four years in prison, arguing that she was likely to commit more crimes. But defense attorney Colin MacMeekin pointed out she had a 2-year-old daughter.

“She has admitted [and] taken responsibility for the offenses before the court,” MacMeekin said.

Condon sentenced her to two years of intensive probation, 120 days of electronic monitoring, and 200 hours of community service. She also was ordered to help the others allegedly involved reimburse her former employer.

Steven W. Key, 26, of 7719 Orchard Road, Wonder Lake, pleaded guilty to burglary in connection with the same incident July 8 and is serving a four-year prison sentence.

Meanwhile, charges of burglary and theft remain pending against James Joyner, 22, of 3202 W. Skyway Drive, McHenry. His next court date is Friday.