Former Lander County sheriff arrested once again

Former Lander County Sheriff Michael Kranovich is in jail again following his arrest on state charges of theft and misappropriation of property.

Kranovich was arrested and convicted in October 2002 on charges he embezzled federal anti-drug money while he was sheriff.

He was sentenced to 18 months in federal prison and three years probation. He has been out on bail pending his appeals in that case.

Lt. David Jones of the Nevada Department of Public Safety said Kranovich was charged with six counts involving his misuse of county credit cards and county funds within his budget.

He said the state charges are separate from the federal case, which involved misappropriation of Federal Equitable Forfeiture Sharing Funds.

That fund collects money from drug seizures. It is used by local law enforcement agencies to fight illegal drug use and sales.

Kranovich faces two counts each of theft, fraudulent appropriation of property and misconduct of a public officer. Jones said all are felony counts carrying sentences of up to six years in prison.

All of the alleged crimes occurred while Kranovich was Lander County sheriff.

Kranovich was taken into custody Thursday morning and transported to Elko County Jail where he is being held in lieu of $1,500 cash-only bail.

He will make his initial appearance in Lander County Justice Court this morning. Because the justice of the peace there has known Kranovich for years, he recused himself. Douglas County Justice of the Peace Jim EnEarl was appointed to handle the case.