Scripps heir gets 9 years for swindling mom, uncle

PHILADELPHIA (AP) — A media company heir raised in what he called a wealthy but dysfunctional family was sentenced to nine years in prison for stealing millions of dollars from his mother and disabled uncle.

A defense lawyer argued Monday that Michael Scripps has built a productive life after becoming estranged from the family in 2006.

But a federal judge says the theft caused the estrangement.

Scripps was convicted of fraud at an April trial.

Prosecutors say he persuaded his mother to let his college friend in suburban Philadelphia manage $9 million of her and her brother's money.

Scripps then stole $3.6 million, with about $300,000 going to the friend, Richard "Duke" Gleeson. He faces sentencing later Monday.

Michael Scripps is a descendant of James E. Scripps, the founder of The Detroit News.