Ex-Court Clerk Gets 10-Year Sentence

A former courthouse clerk who pleaded guilty to stealing nearly $5 million from the estates of dead people to finance a ritzy lifestyle has been sentenced to 10 years in prison.

Mel Spillman, who earned $33,000 a year in his county job, poured much of the money into a $400,000 home and at least five Ferraris.

Prosecutors said Spillman would fake papers naming himself temporary administrator of an estate, stamp them with stolen county seals and then use those documents to withdraw bank funds and take control of houses and other properties.

"I was stupid and did some greedy things," Spillman said Tuesday as he tearfully asked for leniency. "I've lost everything I've owned, friends, family. ... I mean, I deserved it."

District Judge Sharon MacRae gave Spillman the two maximum terms of 10 years in prison for forgery and impersonating a public servant. The sentences are to be served concurrently. He will be eligible for parole in five years.

Spillman's sister, Debra Miller, was given 10 years probation for helping her brother steal from one estate.

Spillman agreed to return some of the stolen money and personal items. His home and the Ferraris were seized in a raid last year.