NEWPORT — Jackson County Circuit Court Clerk Lisa Turner has pleaded guilty to a misdemeanor theft of property charge and resigned from office.
Turner entered the plea Thursday and paid $15 restitution.
Special prosecutor Jack McQuary told reporters that even though the amount of money taken was small — it is still public money and must be accounted for. Turner acknowledged using the money to buy a Christmas wreath, lunches and soft drinks.
State police investigators say they began looking into allegations of theft in the clerk's office in mid-May at the request of Prosecuting Attorney Henry Boyce. Boyce also asked for the special prosecutor.
Officials say deputy clerks will run the office until the quorum court names a replacement — which is expected in June.