Man claims innocence in walrus tusk theft
HILARY MATHESON | Hagadone News Network | UPDATED 10 years, 3 months AGO
EDUCATION REPORTER Hilary Matheson covers education for the Daily Inter Lake. Her reporting focuses on schools, students, and the policies that shape public education across Northwest Montana. Matheson regularly reports on school boards, district decisions and issues affecting teachers and families. Her work examines how funding, enrollment and state policy influence local school systems. She helps readers understand how education decisions affect students and communities throughout the region. IMPACT: Hilary’s work provides transparency and insight into the schools that serve thousands of local families. | July 19, 2016 10:45 AM
A Marion man who allegedly stole an ivory walrus tusk as collateral for his stolen motorcycle pleaded not guilty to felony theft and felony bail jumping Thursday in Flathead District Court.
Defense Attorney Sean Hinchey entered the plea on behalf of Edward Lee Hubbs III, 34, who was not present in court.
The Flathead County Sheriff’s Office responded to a burglary report at a U.S. 93 West residence on Jan. 31. The victim told deputies that personal property including the ivory walrus tusk was stolen, according to court documents.
On June 6, a deputy located the walrus tusk during a search in a vehicle in which Hubbs was a passenger.
Hubbs reportedly said he was “holding onto the tusk as collateral” because a man had allegedly stolen his motorcycle.
If convicted of the felony theft charge, Hubbs could receive a maximum 10-year sentence in Montana State Prison, a fine up to $50,000 and restitution.
The bail-jumping charge was added when Hubbs failed to appear at his arraignment hearing on the felony theft offense on June 23.
He faces up to 10 years in Montana State Prison for this second charge.
Hubbs is being held at the Flathead County Detention Center on theft, criminal possession of dangerous drugs, bail jumping and violation of release condition charges.
A jury trial is slated to begin Oct. 11.
Hilary Matheson is a reporter for The Daily Inter Lake. She may be reached at 758-4431 or [email protected].
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