Embezzlement suspect pleads not guilty

A Columbia Falls man accused of embezzling more than $7,600 from the Kalispell KFC restaurant pleaded not guilty Thursday in Flathead District Court.

Douglas Lynn Russell, 54, is alleged to have stolen the money by failing to make 14 deposits between Nov. 1 and 18, 2012, while he was employed at the restaurant. 

According to a court document, Russell said during an interview he “couldn’t remember” if he had made the deposits.

Russell was initially arrested on a $10,000 warrant, but was released on his own recognizance during his initial appearance in Flathead Justice Court.

If convicted, Russell faces up to 10 years in prison and a fine of up to $50,000. His next hearing is set for Aug. 28.