Hearing in theft case delayed

An ombudsman hearing to review evidence in the case of a former Grant County Mosquito District 2 clerk, previously scheduled for Tuesday, April 26, has been re-scheduled to June 21, the prosecutor’s office reported.

The clerk, Karyn M. Byam, 40, an Electric City resident, has been charged with theft and misappropriation of funds, totaling $129,834.

The case came to attention of county authorities after a Washington State Auditor’s Office report highlighted problems.

Deputy Prosecutor Mark A. Laiminger said last Tuesday the delay was to afford prosecutors time to interview witnesses. He stated that the number of documents forced the delay.

Laiminger said that a trial date has been set for July 20, in Grant County Superior Court.