Prosecutor Delivers Funds To District

MUSKOGEE, Okla. (AP) -- A former school superintendent, who awaits sentencing on embezzlement and tax charges, has made more than $1 million in restitution to his former school district.

U.S. Attorney Sheldon J. Sperling delivered checks totaling $1,088,948 from Larry Couch to Marble City school board president Ramon Bolin last week.

The 55-year-old Couch pleaded guilty in May to embezzlement of government funds, making and subscribing a false tax return and a forfeiture action seeking $979,000. He has paid the Internal Revenue Service $70,000.

Sperling says Couch used the money to purchase properties, including ranch land and a flower shop.

Couch still faces up to 13 years in prison.