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The framework of a plea deal is in place for former Genola town clerk Traci Wright, but the prosecutor is looking for some input before a formal offer is made, according to defense attorney Michael Petro.
At a hearing in Provo's 4th District Court on Tuesday, Petro said an agreement has basically been reached, but the prosecution is essentially waiting for a thumbs up from Utah County Attorney Jeff Buhman or deputy county attorney Tim Taylor. Both were unavailable on Tuesday, so Judge Steven Hansen rescheduled the hearing for Aug. 19.
"Because it's a case that involves a public official, it's something that we would like to discuss and have input from more than just one attorney. We want to make sure we're doing what's best for the citizens of Genola and we want to make sure we're doing what's best for the citizens of Utah County," said deputy county attorney Ryan Peters, who is prosecuting the case.
Wright, who served as Genola's town clerk for 12 years, resigned her position in September after inconsistencies were discovered in the town's finances. She is charged with 13 counts of misuse of public money, 13 counts of forgery and one count of theft. At her arraignment in July, Wright pleaded not guilty to the charges, which Peters said cover the period from January 2006 to August 2007.
Petro said the agreement would require Wright to pay almost half of the restitution -- about $104,000 -- up front. If the rest of the money is paid to Genola during the duration of the plea deal, Petro said, Wright's charges would be reduced to misdemeanors. Petro said he expects Wright to be sentenced to probation.
"I think it's a fair resolution," Petro said.
Peters said no formal deal has been reached.
"I'd like some input on the case before we come to any final resolutions," he said. "I [will] review it with as many attorneys as I can."
Petro said Wright's husband had to mortgage the couple's home to come up with money for the restitution because the charges against her prevented her from borrowing money.
City officials have estimated that Wright may have taken as much as $240,000, but Peters has indicated that the number could be as low as $65,000. Each of the 13 counts of misuse of public money represents at least $5,000, he said.
Genola now employs two town clerks, one of whom spends about four hours a week reviewing records. The town also purchased software for more efficient record keeping.
• Jeremy Duda can be reached at 344-2561 or
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