Watch CBS News

Sentencing Delayed For Former Deerfield Commissioner Guilty Of Misconduct, Theft

FORT LAUDERDALE (CBS4) – Sentencing was postponed Monday for a former Deerfield Beach commissioner convicted on campaign finance-related charges.

Steve Gonot was convicted in May of felony grand theft and misconduct. Each charge carries a sentence of up to five years in prison. A third charge, falsifying records, is a misdemeanor which has a penalty of up to one year in the Broward County jail.

Gonot unlawfully used more than used $5,135 in campaign money for his personal use. Gonot allegedly wrote the check to a long-time friend for "supplies and equipment reimbursement" for his campaign. Investigators found that no such equipment existed by the time Gonot falsely listed the transaction on his campaign treasurer's report.

Gonot has been free on bail since his conviction but was ordered to surrender his passport.

His defense attorney, Jeffrey Harris, is expected to ask for probation.  The State Attorney's Office has not set a new sentencing date. 

Gonot served on the Deerfield Beach Commission from 2001 until he resigned in 2008 after being charged with the crimes.

View CBS News In
CBS News App Open
Chrome Safari Continue
Be the first to know
Get browser notifications for breaking news, live events, and exclusive reporting.