Former clerk Michael Pirik pleaded guilty to changing county payroll records so some employees would be paid for days they did not work between 1999 and 2004.
Defense attorney, Sam Shamansky, said Pirik's guilty plea comes after in-depth discussions with both sides.
"Mr. Pirik has decided to resolve this case without a trial for several reasons. Number one he believes it's in the best interest of his family, that's first and foremost. Trials are always protracted; they're contentious even though you have professionals. And he felt that given his particular circumstances it was prudent for him to avoid trial," Shamansky said.
Shamansky said he does not feel like Pirik is being made an example of. Delaware County Prosecutor, David Yost, who was brought in to handle the case, said Pirik is not being treated differently than any other criminal. But Yost said Pirik's former position as a public official puts him in a special category for public scrutiny.
"A public official is always an example, whether they want to be or not. They are in the public eye and they work for the people so when they are courageous and truthful hopefully that's an example. When they have to accept responsibility for wrong doing I guess that's an example of different sort, but still an example," Yost said.
Judge Nodine Miller will sentence Pirik March 10. He could face up to 18 months in jail and $5,000 in fines. His attorney Shamansky hopes Pirik will receive probation.