Lawyer: 'Granny robber' stole for her son

updated 9:36 a.m. ET Dec. 31, 2008

HAMILTON, Ohio - The Ohio woman dubbed "the Granny Robber" in several bank heists was trying to support a grown son who had fallen on hard times, her defense attorney said Tuesday.

Sixty-eight-year-old Barbara Joly has admitted she robbed a bank in March and investigators suspect her in as many as three other holdups.

Police say the former bank teller from Middletown, Ohio, probably got away with less than $10,000 total.

Attorney Chris Atkins said in court Tuesday that his client wanted to send money to help her only child.

Joly could face up to five years in prison when sentenced in February but prosecutors in southwest Ohio's Butler County say they would support a probationary sentence.

More from msnbc.com   Silver Lining: Tales of struggle and hope Is Obama’s star dimming as U.S. standing drops? First Read: Guest list for White House dinner Opinion: Coherent after coma? Not so sure Analyst: India needs reassurance it's a priority She lost it all, but found a purpose On Twitter: Breaking news updates | Weird and wild

MORE FROM CRIME & COURTS

Crime & courts Section Front

Ohio executioners sought doctor’s aid  Census worker killed himself, police say ‘Junior’ Gotti jury signals deadlock — again   Alaska diocese OKs $10 million abuse payout Police release sketch of L.A. serial killer Report: ‘Cathouse’ star stabbed, slashed, shot Clinton campaign hostage taker re-arrested Club owners get prison in 2003 stampede Crime & courts Section Front   Add Crime & courts headlines to your news reader: