The former head of a Cookeville-based agency has been sentenced to 18 months in federal prison on fraud charges.
Wendy Askinsheaded the Upper Cumberland Development District.
She recently pleaded guilty to charges that she used government money for a million-dollar house that she called "Living the Dream."
As our NewsChannel 5 investigation first revealed, what was supposed to be a home for needy seniors became her home.
Askins told a federal judge, "I can't apologize for the sincere passion that I served the less fortunate with throughout my entire career."
She added, "However, I do apologize for mistakes that were made and I am truly sorry."
Askins is expected to plead guilty and be sentenced Monday on related state charges.
She'll have to report to prison by January 9, 2017.
