Former Armstrong Police Chief Craig Merril was given a deferred judgement during his sentencing hearing Tuesday in Emmet County District Court.
Just before his trial was set to begin last week, Merril entered an Alford plea to two counts of assault with a dangerous weapon-taser. As part of the plea deal, charges of ongoing misconduct, first degree theft and two counts of non-felonious misconduct in office were dismissed.
Judge Jeffrey Neary accepted the defense request for a deferred judgement. Merril will be placed on probation for up to two years at the discretion of the Department of Corrections. If Merril successfully completes probation with no additional issues, his record will be expunged.
Judge Nearly also waived an $855 fine.
Merril was one of five Armstrong City Officials arrested in February 2021 for misconduct in office. Three former Armstrong City Clerks had previously pleaded guilty in the case.
Former Mayor Greg Buum is scheduled to stand trial on October 1st in Clay County District Court. Buum is facing 11 misdemeanor and felony counts.
