Clinton J. Smith, the former sheriff of Dundy County, Nebraska, has been sentenced for his involvement in the theft of firearms from his department. Smith, 43 years old, pled guilty to a felony charge of attempted possession of a stolen firearm. This charge stems from an investigation that revealed Smith had taken weapons from his sheriff’s department, including four Glock pistols. He received a sentence of 90 days in jail and four years of probation.
The legal process was part of a plea deal that resulted in a reduction of charges. A second theft charge, which involved stealing items worth between $500 and $1,500, was dropped as part of the agreement. Smith will serve the first 45 days of his jail sentence immediately, while the remaining days are set to be served after his probation period. If Smith successfully completes his probation, the remaining jail time may be waived. This case has garnered significant attention due to the involvement of the sheriff in such misconduct.
In addition to his sentence, Smith is also required to pay $474.75 in reparation. This payment is meant to help cover costs associated with the stolen items.
Dundy County sheriff’s office investigates missing firearms
The case began when the new sheriff in Dundy County discovered that four Glock pistols were missing from the department’s weapons storage room. The new sheriff quickly took action, asking Smith about the missing firearms. However, Smith denied any knowledge of where the guns might be.
As part of their investigation, the Nebraska State Patrol was called in to look into the matter further. Investigators worked quickly and were able to locate one of the stolen guns inside Smith’s residence in Benkelman. This discovery led to the criminal charges against Smith for unlawfully possessing and taking a stolen firearm.
The search for the other missing firearms continues, as authorities are working to determine how Smith, the former sheriff, came to possess them. His actions have raised serious questions about his time in office, and the case has left a mark on the community.
