LET’S MAKE A DEAL

Ex-Bachmann Aide Sentenced to Community Service

Was charged with misdemeanor theft.

One of Rep. Michele Bachmann’s former legislative aides will have to complete 32 hours of community service by December 19 if he wants to avoid being prosecuted further on a misdemeanor theft charge. Javier Sanchez, who was sentenced on Monday, reached a deferred prosecution agreement after his arrest in July. He was accused of stealing $200 in cash after police officers installed cameras in Bachmann’s office because other staff members had reported two thefts. The resulting video allegedly captured Sanchez taking two envelopes labeled “petty cash” and “birthday money.” If Sanchez went to trial, he could have faced 180 days in jail and a $1,000 fine.