Guilty plea expected from former Northland politician who was focus of 41 Action News investigation

PLATTE CITY, Mo. - A former Northland politician charged with corruption is expected to enter a guilty plea at his next court appearance in October.

Kevin Rawlings faces criminal charges for misusing public information when he was board president of the Northland Regional Ambulance District (NRAD).

After several hearings were rescheduled, the latest docket entry for Rawlings’ criminal case in Case.net shows a plea is expected at an October court date.

Platte County Prosecutor Eric Zahnd alleged Rawlings profited nearly $145,000 after he sold a piece a land to taxpayers to build a new ambulance station.

According to court documents, Rawlings bought the land near the Camden Point exit of Interstate 29, knowing NRAD intended to build a station in that area.

Rawlings sold 1.5 acres to NRAD for $175,000. The ambulance district did not order an appraisal prior to making the deal. However, an appraisal ordered by law enforcement authorities estimated the land’s value at $30,000.

A 41 Action News investigation first questioned the land deal back in 2011.

41 Action News also interviewed Rawlings at his home in Dearborn on the day he was criminally charged in February.

Rawlings' attorney, Kathleen Fisher, declined to comment until after her client’s court date on October 16.

Zahnd also said he could not discuss the case.

Following a guilty plea, a judge would decide Rawlings’ punishment at a sentencing hearing. During NRAD public meetings, taxpayers have demanded the money be paid back.

Ryan Kath can be reached at ryan.kath@kshb.com. You can follow him on Twitter or connect with him on Facebook.