Supervisors Vote To Remove Brandt, Knapp From Office

Two Antelope County officials who recently pleaded no contest to criminal activity were removed from office this morning during the county supervisor's meeting, effective immediately. 

Supervisor Harlan Brandt and treasurer Sandy Knapp were removed from office following the recommendation from county attorney Joseph Abler.

Following a heated meeting, Brandt was asked to leave the premises. Knapp did not attend the meeting. 

Deb Branstiter was appointed interim treasurer. Applications will be taken for the position. Brandt's position was not appointed at the meeting. 

Abler cited a reason for the removal from office being Nebraska Intergovernmental Risk Management Association (NIRMA) will no longer bond Brandt and Knapp as county officials. 

Brandt pleaded no contest to theft by deception, a Class I misdemeanor, due to items totaling more than $200. A felony theft charge was dropped as part of his plea agreement.

Knapp pleaded no contest to public official-misuse of property/funds, a Class III misdemeanor. As part of her plea agreement, the charge of official misconduct, a Class II misdemeanor, was dismissed.