Sentencing Continued for Sheridan Woman Charged With Theft

A sentencing for a Sheridan woman was continued this week in Fourth Judicial District Court due to new evidence that was presented in the case. Sheridan Media’s Ron Richter has the details.

A sentencing hearing was held Tuesday in District Court for 59-year-old Laurie Gausvik who is charged with Felony Theft for allegedly making over $5,800 in unauthorized purchases with a debit card that was not hers. The purchases were made during the months of November and December of 2020. During the sentencing, Gausvik was called to the stand to testify on her behalf.

During the testimony, new information was presented in the case that indicated some of the charges may have been authorized, opening the door to the possibility that Gausvik may not be guilty of the crime she was charged with, felony theft. In Wyoming, the crime of theft is a felony if the value of the property or services stolen is $1,000 or more.

Defense Attorney Anna Malmberg said Gausvik provided email correspondence to her the day prior to sentencing that could possibly change the outcome of the case. Sheridan County Deputy Prosecuting Attorney Christina White said she would need to review the newly obtained evidence and recommended the Court not proceed with sentencing at this time. District Court Judge John Fenn continued sentencing and said sentencing or a hearing to resolve the matter would be rescheduled within the next 45 to 60 days.