Ex-town official answers to embezzlement charges

PALMER, Mass. (AP) - The former town treasurer in Brimfield has been arraigned on charges she embezzled more than $80,000 from the town.

The Republican newspaper of Springfield reports (http://bit.ly/1c1OcAe ) reports Kirsten Weldon pleaded not guilty on Friday in Palmer District Court to charges of larceny over $250, larceny over $250 by single scheme and embezzlement by a municipal or county officer.

Weldon was released on personal recognizance and her case continued until February.

She left the court after the arraignment with her parents and did not comment.

Prosecutors allege the 43-year-old Weldon stole more than $80,000 from the town from 2006 until earlier this year. She admitted making "mistakes" when she resigned in April.

Town selectmen say they have added new safeguards against the misuse of town funds.

Cox Media Group