OSKALOOSA — Jurors have found Mahaska County Supervisor Henry “Willie” VanWeelden guilty of first-degree theft, felonious conduct in office and tampering with documents.
The trial took a week; jurors took only about three hours to reach a decision. The prosecution and defense offered closing arguments Friday morning and the jury was dismissed around 11:15 a.m. Friday to begin its deliberation. Notice was given that the jury had reached a verdict about 2:15 p.m. Friday.
The charges were in regards to VanWeelden placing his wife, Bonnie, on county health insurance coverage after he was reelected in November 2008. She was covered initially after VanWeelden was elected in 2001. She was removed in 2004 and then was reinstated in early 2009 after VanWeelden was reelected.
Judge Paul Miller said a sentencing date has yet to be set. A presentence investigation has to be completed. Miller said bond remains as previously set.
Miller directed the prosecution to prepare a statement of pecuniary damages.
Miller told the defense that counsel can ask for a new trial. They also can file an appeal within 45 days of the announcement of the verdict.
After the trial ended, defense attorney Matt Moore declined to comment on the case.
