Kimberly Huey, associate professor of health sciences, pled guilty to fifth-degree theft charges on Oct. 10, following a citation for attempting to steal $15 worth of merchandise from the Hy-Vee on the 3300 block of Martin Luther King Jr. Parkway.

On Sept. 20, Hy-Vee employees witnessed Huey put merchandise in her pants’ pockets. She purchased some items, but did not pay for the groceries in her pockets. As she was leaving the store, employees stopped and detained her until an officer arrived at the scene.

According to Des Moines Police records, Huey was cited for trying to steal four Boca Burger patties, a candy bar, a pack of turkey lunch meat, a granola bar and a bag of peanuts.

When confronted by a police officer, “she said she had done it on a dare from her brother. She said she had a problem and just needed a warning,” according to the case report. The officer also advised her on criminal trespass from Hy-Vee stores.

After pleading guilty to fifth-degree theft charges, she was sentenced to 12 months probation and ordered to pay a $65 civil penalty.

Bob Soltis, professor of pharmacology and chair of the Department of Pharmacy Science, released a statement on behalf of the College of Pharmacy.

“The college is aware of this incident,” Soltis said. “We take these matters seriously. We have addressed the incident based on college policies regarding integrity issues. As with all personnel issues, whether they involve a student or faculty member, we keep the details confidential.”

In response to her actions, Huey released the following statement.

“I sincerely apologize for a highly regrettable decision I made to take several small items from a grocery store without paying for them,” Huey said. “This was out of character and a one-time incident that was precipitated by some personal/family circumstances. It was not only a poor reflection of myself, but of the College and Drake University. The College has handled this as they would any situation involving academic integrity. I have publicly apologized to both my students and colleagues, and I have greatly learned from my mistake. I would appreciate your understanding and support as I put this behind me and look forward to this year at Drake University.”