Midvale councilman pleads guilty to stealing from neighbor

A Midvale city councilman accused of stealing parts and tools from a neighbor has accepted a plea deal that could allow him to keep his council seat.

Wayne Sharp, 47, pleaded guilty on Monday to reduced charges of attempted burglary and theft, both class A misdemeanors. Sharp had originally been charged with three third-degree felonies, crimes punishable by up to five years in prison and serious enough to disqualify him from holding office.

Prosecutors have said Sharp broke into the shed near 300 W. Wasatch St. and stole a welding machine, engines and a cement mixer.

Police found the cement mixer in Sharp's home. Officials said the councilman sold other items for at least $500.

Sharp was elected to the city council in 1998.

Sharp's attorney, Greg, Skordas, said Sharp on Monday paid the $11,000 he owed in restitution.

afalk@sltrib.com