Rating:

1.0 (1 vote)

Nicholas County Sheriff Dick Garrett took a plea deal Tuesday morning, admitting to charges of Theft by Unlawful Taking and Abuse of Public Trust.

Prosecutors say Garrett used asset forfeiture money "like it was his own personal checking account." An indictment alleges that he took more than $43,000 from the forfeiture account and used $10,000 for his personal use. Garrett allegedly used cash to pay his homeowners insurance, buy Coke products and repay personal loans.

A jury recommended 5 years in prison for the theft charge, and 5 years for the abuse charge. Garrett will also be required to pay restitution of $38,237.60 within 5 years, resign immediately as Sheriff and can will not be able to run for Sheriff again.

Sentencing is scheduled for Nov. 3.