KEARNEY, Neb. (AP) A 41-year-old Pleasanton man faces sentencing next month for stealing from his now former employer. After a deal with prosecutors, Ricky Ripp pleaded guilty Monday in Buffalo County District Court to a reduced count of felony theft. Ripp also will pay his former employer, Wal-Mart, nearly $25,000 in restitution.

Authorities say that while Ripp was working as the Kearney store's automotive supervisor, he would make fraudulent returns. Then he would credit the money to a prepaid credit card. (Copyright 2009 by The Associated Press. All Rights Reserved.)