Lynn Jay Thurston booking photo from the Cache County Jail.
LOGAN — A 75-year-old Providence man has admitted to stealing thousands of dollars from his family. Lynn J. Thurston had been charged with taking the money from multiple trust accounts intended for his grandchildren between 2009 and 2020.
According to court records, Thurston appeared Monday in Brigham City’s 1st District Court. He accepted a plea deal, pleading guilty to two counts of unlawful dealing with property by a fiduciary, a third-degree felony. As part of the agreement, prosecutors dismissed 21 remaining charges.
According to prosecutors, Thurston illegally transferred money from his grandchildren’s savings and trust accounts, more than $349,503 during a 10 year period. The money was then withdrawn in cash or used for personal purchases like a new truck.
Thurston’s ex-wife discovered the money transfers when divorce attorneys were going through the couple’s records. She said the defendant handled all of the finances. The couple cared for and adopted the grandchildren after a car crash in Sardine Canyon killed the children’s parents.
Thurston’s defense attorney, Shannon Demler had previously argued that his client did nothing wrong. He claimed the money was withdrawn to help the couple care for the children, including purchasing a vehicle for the granddaughter and paying for orthodontia work for both children.
Thurston’s case had been postponed several times after three judges recused themselves for various reasons. Judge Spencer Walsh reassigned the case because the defendant lives in his neighborhood. Judge Angela Fonnesbeck later recused herself because her law firm represented the Thurston’s before she became a judge.
In February 2023, Judge Brian Cannell also recused himself due to a potential conflict of interest. He explained how before being sworn to the bench, the law firm he was working for represented Thurston in another case.
During Monday’s hearing, Judge Brandon Maynard accepted the plea deal after Thurston waived his right to a fair trial.
Thurston remains out of jail after posting $30,000 bond. He is scheduled to be sentenced March 4, and could face up to 10 years in prison.