5 years' probation for Malcolm X daughter in theft

NEW YORK – A daughter of Malcolm X has been sentenced to five years of probation for stealing the identity of an elderly family friend to run up big credit card bills. Prosecutors say Malikah Shabazz (shuh-BAHZ') made $55,000 in illegal purchases.

The 46-year-old North Carolina resident pleaded guilty and was freed from jail in June. She has to pay back the full amount stolen as part of the deal.

Prosecutors in New York say Shabazz opened credit cards in the name of a 70-year-old New York City woman whose late husband was one of Malcolm X's bodyguards and was present when he was assassinated at the Audubon Ballroom in Harlem in 1965.

Shabazz's lawyer, Russell Rothberg, did not immediately return a call for comment Thursday.