A former Apple Valley Sons of the American Legion commander charged with stealing thousands from the charitable organization will pay the money back as part of his plea deal.

James Edmund Jensen, 54, of Pepin, Wis., pleaded guilty Monday, Nov. 30, in Dakota County District Court on one felony count of theft by swindle. Five similar counts were dropped in exchange for $25,838 restitution, said a spokesperson for the county attorney.

Jensen served off and on as commander of the organization, which is open to men whose parents or grandparents served in the United States military during wartime, for at least eight years through July 2008.

Charges against him alleged that he wrote several thousand dollars worth of checks to himself from the organization's account during that time.

Other Legion officials went to Apple Valley Police in December 2008 when they could not get Jensen to repay the money.

According to the criminal complaint, Jensen told police he was facing financial problems including a DUI and had hoped to pay the organization back when he sold his home.

As part of his plea, Jensen was also sentenced to three years probation and 100 hours community service. He must stay away from gambling and the American Legion.

Jensen was originally charged in July on six felony counts of theft by swindle. Each count carried up to fives years in jail and a maximum $10,000 fine.

All but $500 of a $10,000 fine imposed by District Judge Karen Asphaug was stayed. Jensen will have to pay the remaining $9,500 and face jail time if he violates any terms of his probation.

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