A Villager accused of stealing more than $1,000 in merchandise while dressed in a turkey costume is poised to escape prosecution in the case.
Irene Leonhard, of the Village of Country Club Hills, on the afternoon of Nov. 10 entered the Belk store at La Plaza Grande, according to an arrest report from the Lady Lake Police Department. She was carrying a blue mesh bag and small brown purse when she entered the store. She selected a Michael Kors purse, removed the paper from inside the purse and put it into her bag. She then selected several other items, put them into her bag and left the store.
Leonhard had taken a total of 11 items worth a total of $1,497.99, the report indicated. She was arrested on a charge of grand theft and booked at the Lake County Jail on $5,000 bond.
Earlier this month in Lake County Court, she entered a plea of no contest in the case and agreed to enter into a pre-trial intervention contract. If she lives up to terms of the contract, which include not owning a firearm and checking in with a mental health professional, the case will be dismissed.