Jesup library book theft case dismissed

Link to February 19 Cedar Rapids Gazette article.

Excerpt: The case of the Independence woman jailed for failure to return a library book ended Thursday when the Buchanan County Attorney’s Office dismissed a fifth-degree theft charge against Shelly Koontz.

In exchange, Koontz, 39, said she returned the book and paid $50 in court costs and a $13.95 fine to the Jesup Public Library.

“I made a mistake. I’m willing to pay for it and make it right. I’m just glad it’s over,” said Koontz, who had been scheduled to answer the charge in court next week.

Koontz was arrested and briefly jailed Jan. 22 for failure to return “The Freedom Writers Diary,” which she had checked out in April [2008, I assume] from the Jesup library. She was released after posting $250 bond.

As for the library.......rational response or overkill?

Jesup library officials have consistently declined to comment on the case.

This certainly wouldn't be a component of my PR plan.