Trial Begins for Former Bell Official

The City of Bell's former Assistant City Administator, Angela Spaccia, is being charged for the misappropriation of public funds.

Prosecutors say Spaccia was part of a scheme to drain money from the city and overpay herself.

Before the trial officially began, former Bell administrator Robert Rizzo - Spaccia's boss - pleaded no contest to similar charges facing her.

According to Spaccia's defense attorney, Harland Braun, Rizzo is to be blamed for overpaying her through what he called a "secret formula."

If Spaccia is convicted, she faces up to 16 years in prison.