Theft suspect enters plea of not guilty

A 22-year-old Kalispell woman pleaded not guilty Thursday in Flathead District Court to felony charges of burglary and theft.

Kayla Dreyer is accused of stealing $16,000 in cash from her grandfather’s safe.

According to a court document, her grandfather reported the theft after having seen the money just four or five days earlier. He told police he believed Dreyer had taken the money because she was working for him on his property and had a drug problem.

Dreyer allegedly admitted to police that she took the money, but said the safe was already open and claimed she took only $9,000. She also allegedly said she took the money to support her drug problem.

If convicted of both charges, Dreyer faces up to 30 years in prison and a fine of up to $100,000 as well as any restitution.

Her next hearing is scheduled for Oct. 17.