Former petunia chair’s plea offer postponed

Donna Brown

LUDINGTON — The former chairwoman of the Ludington Petunia Parade appeared in 51st Circuit Court today where she faces embezzlement charges. Brown, 60, 4152 W. Washington Rd., Pentwater, is accused of taking $47,807.15 from the organization since she became chairwoman in November 2007 until November 2013.

Embezzlement of more than $20,000 but less than $50,000 is punishable by up to 10 years in prison. However, Brown was offered a plea agreement today by Mason County Prosecutor Paul Spaniola.

The prosecution offered Brown one year in the county jail, serving six months up front, along with paying fines, costs and restitution.

However, Brown’s attorney, David Betz said he did not have enough time to respond to Spaniola’s offer; the offer was made on Feb. 27 but Betz has been out of town until recently.

The final conference was rescheduled for Wednesday, April 23 at 1:30 p.m.