Sentencing Set to Begin for Former CIETC Leaders

Former Central Iowa Employment and Training Consortium executive Ramona Cunningham leaves the Federal Courthouse with her attorney Bill Kutmus, Monday, June 30, 2008, in Des Moines, Iowa. Cunningham pleaded guilty Monday to eight counts for her role in a pay scandal at the government-funded job training agency. (AP Photo/Charlie Neibergall)

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By Becky Ogann

Story Created: Dec 15, 2008 at 11:44 AM CST

Story Updated: Dec 15, 2008 at 11:44 AM CST

DES MOINES (AP) - The woman dubbed the ringleader of the CIETC scandal is slated to be sentenced today in federal court in Des Moines.

Ramona Cunningham pleaded guilty to her role in a scam that involved spending more than $1.5 million on executive bonuses and salaries. Cunningham was the CEO at the Central Iowa Employment and Training Consortium.

Prosecutors and Cunningham's attorney, Bill Kutmus, have sparred over Cunningham's sentence.

The U.S. attorney's office said when Cunningham pleaded guilty that they would push for seven to 10 years behind bars.

However, in a sentencing memorandum filed last week, prosecutors asked the judge to apply guidelines ranging from 11 years to 14 years in prison. Kutmus wants lesser time, but the details were sealed.

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