A former Christian County Sheriff’s deputy was back in Christian Circuit Court Wednesday afternoon for a motion to revoke his pretrial diversion after he failed to make restitution to the Christian County drug court, from which he had stolen thousands of dollars. Special Prosecutor Justin Crocker of Franklin filed the motion on April 23, stating that Steve Tucker allegedly failed to make payments as required under the terms of his plea agreement that was reached in February.
Tucker entered a guilty plea to theft by unlawful taking over $10,000 but under $1 million. As part of his plea deal, his five-year sentenced was diverted but Tucker was required to serve 180 days in jail and pay back about $55,000 to the Christian County Juvenile Services where he formerly served as president.
Crocker and Tucker’s defense attorney, H.B. Quinn, appeared before Judge Andrew Self, who informed attorneys he had received several letters of support and a $4,000 cashier’s check made out to Juvenile Services just before court. Quinn also explained to Judge Self there had been some confusion regarding the restitution from Tucker’s retirement account and apparently there was not enough money in the account to cover the full restitution amount.
After a lengthy discussion about restitution, Judge Self stated that at Tucker’s last court appearance he did not accept any responsibility or admit any wrongdoing for the crime he had committed at which time Tucker asked if he could make a statement. Tucker then proceeded to admit responsibility for the theft and apologized to all of the individuals he had betrayed.
Judge Self then stated Tucker had made an important step forward.
Tucker added he was going to make restitution as quickly as he could. After more discussion, Judge Self said he feels like they are on the right path and ruled to reserve and defer the motion to void the diversion, contingent upon the payment of restitution.
Tucker is set to be back in court for a hearing on August 7 for an update on the status of his restitution to the drug court.
Tucker’s full apology and Judge Self’s remarks are below:
