Courtesy Photo Stephanie Jean Randall

Stephanie Jean Randall, 24, of Frederick , often took her children with her when she committed her crimes, according to testimony Wednesday in Frederick County Circuit Court.

"Most of the jewelry is now history," Strawsburg said of his $15,000 loss from Randall's 2008 string of burglaries throughout Frederick and two neighboring counties.

At first, Strawsburg said only two items were found -- recovered from a diaper bag and car seat belonging to Randall's 2- and 4-year-old children.

Later, the family retrieved a Seiko watch Strawsburg's son bought with college graduation money.

Strawsburg spotted it when Randall's husband, James Ryan Randall, "was stupid enough to wear it to court," he said.

"You and your dimwit husband É you deserve each other," Strawsburg said.

Randall apologized Wednesday to Strawsburg and others she victimized while using prescription drugs and heroin for back pain she suffered after a difficult second pregnancy.

While in prison awaiting sentencing for four Frederick County burglaries, Randall said she completed one drug rehabilitation program and she plans to pursue more.

Judge Julie Stevenson Solt said that she has hope for Randall's future, but that the young mother must serve prison time first.

Solt ordered Randall to serve 10 years of a 20-year sentence and to pay nearly $25,000 to her victims in restitution.

"Everyone responds to addiction in a different way," Solt said.

"You chose to victimize other people, and sometimes you did it when your children were in the car. This is of great concern to the court."

Assistant State's Attorney Shelley McVicker said Randall stole jewelry, firearms, laptops and cash during her crimes. Few items were recovered.

Defense attorney Scott L. Rolle said Randall cooperated with police and was prepared to take responsibility for her crimes.

Rolle said she helped police with cases against others involved in break-ins and told authorities where they might find stolen goods.

Until plagued by medical issues, Randall was a normal mother, a community college student and an avid photographer, Rolle said.

"At her lowest point, she began stealing from others to fuel her addiction," he said.

Randall sobbed as she read from a letter she wrote to her victims. She paused to catch her breath several times.

"I have hurt my family, my children and other families that did not deserve to be part of my destructive path," Randall said.

"Please know that I am a good person and my actions are not who I am," she said.

"I know that I will get better and I will take the steps needed to correct my wrongs."

According to court documents, James Randall has legal problems of his own.

In Frederick County, James Randall has upcoming hearings set in cases involving drugs, fleeing and eluding and violation of probation, according to court documents.

He has also been cited for trespassing in Baltimore city. He posted bail Tuesday.

His parents are caring for the couple's children, Rolle said.