WICHITA, Kan. (AP) A former public works director who admitted stealing equipment from a Kansas county is pleading with a federal judge to spare him from prison.
Steven Collier has pleaded guilty to two counts of theft from Barber County in 2010 and agreed to pay more than $116,310 in restitution.
The sentencing is scheduled for May 30. Collier’s lawyer attorney filed a motion Monday seeking a shorter term than the 12 to 18 months prescribed by federal guidelines.
Collier says he strayed from his marriage and stole because of a toxic relationship with his girlfriend. He says he used the money to pay debts and buy things for the woman.
Collier says he now has a comfortable monthly income and needs to remain free so he can support his disabled wife.
