LIHU'E, Kaua'i — A woman has been sentenced to 18 months in prison and five years probation for stealing at least $20,000 from two Kaua'i churches where she worked as a secretary.

Daria Bruce is free on bail pending an appeal in the case. Officials say the theft may have involved up to $85,000 diverted to her personal account from Holy Cross Church in Kalaheo and Sacred Hearts Church in Ele'ele.

Kaua'i Circuit Judge Randal G.B. Valenciano sentenced Bruce on Friday.

He told her the apology was "not sincere" and that she hasn't expressed remorse for her actions.

Bruce's attorney Michael Jay Green says he will appeal the sentence.

A jury convicted Bruce of first-degree theft in August.

She could have faced up to 10 years in prison.