Convictions for theft and embezzlement usually have two separate punishments: imprisonment and restitution (give back what you stole). As to the restitution part only, being able to pay back the money can avoid imprisonment related to the restitution judgment. But there is nothing unfair about that.

Paying restitution is one thing, being forced to stay in jail while paying it back is quite another. Normally these cases are handled with garnished wages.

The idea that if you give back what you stole your punishment will be lessened is as old as theft.

To be clear, there wasn't _only_ restitution (center) punishment. She was placed on probation for 5 years of a 7 year sentence. Except she was also being "held" at the restitution center while that part of her sentence was being carried out.

Probably. They're doing jail time either way because that much money is a felony. This may actually be the compassionate outcome? Im not sure though.