Serving Lincoln County for more than a century!
Serving Lincoln County for more than a century!
DAVENPORT — A man convicted of second-degree theft in Lincoln County Superior Court pleaded for his release, citing urgent medical concerns during a hearing Tuesday, Dec. 17.
Shaun Michael Willhite, 44, apologized for his actions and asked the court for immediate release due to a serious medical condition.
“I would like to apologize for the situation,” Willhite said. “My name will never come across your desks again. That is a promise on my word. I will never be in a situation like this again.”
Willhite also told the court about a health issue that he said requires immediate attention.
“I am terribly scared because 6 months ago a mass was located on my kidney and yesterday I started urinating blood. I am asking to be released immediately to get the medical attention I need,” Willhite said.
Lincoln County Superior Court Judge Jeff Barkdull acknowledged Willhite’s medical concerns but noted the decision on release conditions would ultimately rest with the state.
“You’re a young man, and you don’t have a terrible criminal history,” Barkdull said. “You need to get yourself on the straight and narrow.”
Willhite, who already served 30 days in jail, agreed to a sentence of time served and will now face transfer to Whitman County to answer additional charges. He was ordered to pay a $25 monthly fine.
Willhite’s second-degree theft charge stems from a May 24 incident in which deputies connected him to the theft of a toolbox, stereo system, and approximately 100 gallons of diesel fuel from a property on Boyk Road.
Investigators found a half-drunk Mountain Dew bottle at the scene, which linked Willhite’s DNA to the crime.
While expressing regret, Willhite’s plea to avoid further detention highlighted his efforts to move forward and address his health needs.
As part of his sentencing, Willhite will face a readiness hearing on February 25 and a trial date set for March 19.
Willhite has charges he will face in Whitman County Superior Court, delaying his release frmo custody reports his defense.
Olivia Harnack is the award-winning managing editor/photographer/videographer/columnist at the Lincoln County Record-Times, with offices in both Davenport and Odessa, Wash. She is a University of Idaho graduate and a U.S. Army National Guardsman.
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