Sheridan Man Pleads ‘No Contest’ to Numerous Felony Charges

A 37-year-old Sheridan man who was scheduled to stand trial this week in District Court changed his plea on a number of charges at a hearing Thursday. Sheridan Media’s Ron Richter has the details.

Last week, William Ziska’s Attorney, Anna Malmberg, filed a change of plea motion and notice to vacate the jury trial that was scheduled to take place this week in District Court. The 37-year-old Ziska was set to stand trial for 12 counts of Felony Voyeurism and one count of Sexual Exploitation of Children. Ziska was arrested and charged with the crimes for allegedly installing a video camera in the vent of a bathroom at a residence in Sheridan. According to court documents, the criminal activity occurred between February 19 and March 22 of last year. Thursday in District Court, Ziska pleaded “no contest” to all 13 counts. The pleas were not part of a plea agreement with the State.

Sheridan County Deputy and Prosecuting Attorney Christina White requested that the Court block out at least two hours for the sentencing hearing so that there would be sufficient time for the State to present evidence in the case. Due to the request, District Court Judge John Fenn did not set a date for sentencing at the change of plea hearing, instead, said that the Court would be in contact with the legal counsel in the case to arrange a date for sentencing. Judge Fenn did however order that a presentence investigation be completed and revoked Ziska’s bond and remanded him to the custody of the Sheridan County Detention Center to await sentencing. Ziska faces up to 34 years in prison and fines of up to $70,000.