City clerk in theft case likely to get probation

A former Williamsburg city clerk likely will be placed on probation for stealing from the City of Williamsburg.

 Teresa D. Yelland, 32, Quenemo, is scheduled to be sentenced in March after pleading guilty to felony theft Monday.

As part of a plea agreement with the state, Yelland pleaded guilty to the theft charge, and the state dismissed the two other charges of making a false writing and computer crime.

Her sentencing hearing is set for 1:30 p.m. March 16 at Franklin County District Court.

Yelland’s charge of felony theft could be punishable by five to 17 months in jail, depending on her prior criminal record, though probation is likely.

Steve Six, Kansas attorney general, and Jon Fleenor, assistant attorney general, said Yelland stole at least $1,000 but less than $25,000 from the City of Williamsburg between 2004 and 2007.

Prosecutors also said Yelland was involved with a financial document in October 2006 that falsely stated the use of a check written from the City of Williamsburg’s checking account that she had converted to personal use.

Yelland also was accused of using a computer or computer system or network to defraud and obtain money.

Steven A. Karrer, assistant Kansas Attorney General, said he and Yelland’s lawyer have discussed the issue of restitution and hope to agree on an amount by sentencing.

Herald staff writer Jodie Garcia can be e-mailed at jgarcia@ottawaherald.com.