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LaHarpe Mayor Accused of Misconduct in Office

The mayor of LaHarpe faces prison time and removal from office for allegedly using city staff and equipment for personal gain in November 2016. 

Ryan Kienast is charged with one count of Official Misconduct. The charge was filed in circuit court this week by Hancock County States Attorney Jason Pohren.

In his filing, Pohren accused Kienast of ordering a city employee to use a city-owned backhoe to remove dirt from a residence Kienast owns at 605 E. Main Street. Pohren said the use of public property for personal purposes is prohibited.

Kienast faces up to five years in prison. Illinois code also states Kienast would have to step down if convicted.

Jason Parrott is a former reporter at Tri States Public Radio.