Former China City Secretary Stands Trial for $61,000 Theft

The former Mayor of China and Jefferson County Sheriff's Deputy Charles Fancey testified Tuesday the former China City Secretary admitted to him and three law enforcement investigators that she took money from the city.

Former City Secretary Heather Harrison is standing trial on a charge of felony theft.

Prosecutors say Harrison embezzled at least $61,000. But the amount could be more than $100,000.

They believe the theft took place from January of 2004 until July of 2005.

Fancey testified Harrison said during an interview with him and investigators that she deposited checks and money orders collected for the China City water service but kept the cash.

"She looked directly at me and apologized and said 'I'm sorry,'" Fancey testified.

Harrison's defense attorney Jimmy Hamm questioned Fancey whether he was acting during the interview as the China Mayor or as an law enforcement investigator and whether Harrison had been advised for her "Miranda Rights."

Fancey testified he was acting as the mayor and that Harrison had been advised verbally of her rights.

Fancey testified once she was asked to give a written statement, she decided she would seek the advice of an attorney.

The former Assistant City Secretary testified Tuesday Harrison routinely made the city's check and cash bank deposits.

Testimony continues Wednesday in Judge John Stevens' court.