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Grand Forks, N.D. (AP) A Grand Forks postal worker who pleaded guilty to stealing gift cards from the mail has been sentenced to two years probation and ordered to pay back the victims.

Brian McGurran was charged in federal court with 17 counts of theft of mail matter by a Postal Service employee. He faced a maximum penalty of five years in prison and a $250,000 fine.

Authorities say McGurran stole 17 gift cards between last November and January this year.

U.S. District Judge Ralph Erickson ordered McGurran to repay $995.

(Copyright 2008 by The Associated Press. All Rights Reserved.) APNP 11-03-08 0619CST | save this article / add to your favorites list