Guilty plea in Pa. theft of almost $2.5 million

PITTSBURGH (AP) — A western Pennsylvania woman has pleaded guilty to taking part in a theft of almost $2.5 million that federal prosecutors say forced Pittsburgh’s only minority-owned bank into insolvency almost two years ago.

Forty-three-year-old Elexa Manos-Becton of Coraopolis pleaded guilty today to bank fraud and money laundering.

Assistant U.S. Attorney Paul Hull says the defendant learned of an accounting glitch at Dwelling House Savings and Loan that allowed her and others to steal money undetected, and they spent a lot on shopping and nightlife.

Manos-Becton also told the judge that she had addiction problems but is in recovery.

One of her friends is awaiting sentencing. Another is facing charges along with Manos-Becton’s son.

Manos-Becton is to be sentenced Sept. 29. She and her public defender declined comment after the hearing.