Lyndsay Jo Huntsman, 44, of Creston withdrew her previous plea of not guilty and pleaded guilty to five counts of first-degree theft today (Friday).
Huntsman was originally charged with ongoing criminal conduct and five counts of first-degree theft Jan. 26, which stemmed from an investigation by Creston Police Department and Iowa Department of Criminal Investigation (DCI).
According to a DCI report, Huntsman misappropriated more than $500,000 from Creston Automotive business accounts, and according to a Creston Police report, between Jan. 1, 2010, and Dec. 31, 2014, Huntsman committed multiple thefts for financial gain on a continual basis, and knowingly acquired or maintained, directly or indirectly, interest in or control of real property through specified unlawful activity, theft or embezzlement of funds.
Each count of first-degree theft is a class C felony and carries a fine between $1,000 and $10,000, as well as a maximum of 10 years in prison.
The original charge of ongoing criminal conduct could possibly be dismissed after the sentencing hearing.
A sentencing hearing for Huntsman is scheduled for 9:30 a.m. July 31 at Union County Courthouse.