A former band administrator who defrauded the Aamjiwnaang First Nation of $250,000 will spend the next two years under house arrest.

Reynold Williams, 56, was sentenced Wednesday, avoiding a three-year prison term recommended by the Crown.

Over a period of several years Williams stole the money to finance a gambling addiction, withdrawing thousands of dollars at a time from ATMs during visits to local casinos.

"I don't expect anyone to forgive me or forget," Williams told the court, choking back tears. "I just want them to understand addiction."

The theft was discovered in 2005 when an audit revealed nearly $2.8-million in band funds were missing. Four other people were charged and their cases are still before the court.

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