The wife of a police chief pleaded guilty Wednesday to theft from the Pendleton Wal-Mart where she worked.

Her lawyer said Julie Zumwalt was a gambling addict.

"She is an ambitious, smart gal," said Kurt Bendixsen, "but unfortunately she got snagged by the gambling monster."

Bendixsen said she had gone through a 12-step program and counseling.

She was sentenced to two years of probation and to repay Wal-Mart $13,174.18.

She is married to Bryon Zumwalt, chief of the town Stanfield in Umatilla County.

More information on the negative effects of gambling.