Reasons for arrest not available yet

By PHYLLIS ZORN

Staff writer

The events leading up to former county economic development director Teresa L. Huffman’s Oct. 8 arrest won’t be disclosed before next week — if even then.

Wichita lawyer John Stang, hired to defend Huffman on a charge of misuse of public funds, filed a motion a week ago seeking that the probable cause affidavit, formally requested by Marion County Record, be kept under wraps until he has time to review it himself.

On the same day, Stang filed a separate motion seeking information in the case including any statements or confessions made by Huffman, witnesses to such confessions, reports of any physical or mental examinations, and other evidence known to the prosecution.

District Judge Michael Powers said Stang’s deadline to decide whether he wants information removed from the probable cause affidavit, or opposes release of the affidavit, is Friday. Powers will decide Monday whether or not to release it.

Huffman was county economic development director until she resigned in May 2017.

County clerk Tina Spencer earlier said Huffman allegedly misused $46,870.89 in county money.

The charge is a level 7 felony. If convicted, state sentencing guidelines would suggest a sentence ranging from 24 months probation to 30 months in prison, depending on any previous convictions Huffman may have. Prison time is recommended if she has two or more previous crimes against a person.

Huffman was released from jail on a $10,000 surety bond the same day she was arrested. She is scheduled to make her first court appearance Monday.