BUCYRUS, OH (CRAWFORD COUNTY NOW)—Former Bucyrus City Councilwoman Carolyn Shireman, 72, of has entered into a plea agreement just days before her jury trial was scheduled to begin on Tuesday.
Under the terms of the agreement, Shireman is expected to plead no contest to two felony charges: one count of theft from a person in a protected class, a third-degree felony punishable by up to 36 months in prison, and one count of grand theft, a fourth-degree felony carrying a potential sentence of up to 18 months in prison.
A no contest plea means Shireman does not admit guilt but accepts conviction and sentencing based on the facts presented. For sentencing purposes, the court treats the no contest plea the same as a guilty plea.
Shireman is represented by Bucyrus attorney Andrew Motter. Assistant Prosecutor Ryan Hooveler is representing the State of Ohio. Visiting retired Judge Howard E. Hall is presiding over the case and has ordered a pre-sentence investigation to be completed prior to sentencing.
Judge Hall is scheduled to sentence Shireman on April 9. Crawford County Now will continue to follow and report on this developing story.