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Fargo, N.D. (AP) A former Ransom County sheriff accused of mishandling property and failing to perform his duties is to permanently surrender his North Dakota peace officer's license.

In exchange, James Klinicke (KLIN'-skee) will not be prosecuted on the misdemeanor charges.

The agreement was made final during a recent hearing before Southeast District Judge Daniel Narum.

The charges against Klinicke will be suspended for two years and then dismissed if he meets several conditions, including the surrender of his license. He is not required to admit to any wrongdoing.

Had he been convicted of the charges, Klinicke could have faced two years in prison and fines up to $2,000.

Klinicke became sheriff in January 2007 and resigned in November 2008.

Information from: The Forum, http://www.in-forum.com (Copyright 2009 by The Associated Press. All Rights Reserved.) APNP 07-20-09 0915CDT | save this article / add to your favorites list