Chris Abril appeared in Henderson County Court last Friday, May 11 on charges of financial card fraud and identity theft. His case was continued until June 1.
The former Polk County Sheriff told Judge Mack Brittain that he’s not guilty of stealing his former sister-in-law’s debit card and that he had power of attorney over her to handle her financial affairs.
Abril also faces charges in Polk County for the same incident after his ex-sister-in-law pressed charges, alleging Abril used her debit card for purchases such as getting fuel and purchasing lumber at Lowe’s.
Judge Brittain told Abril last week he faces a maximum of 24 months in prison if convicted. Brittain requested Abril’s case be continued to a day when he is not presiding because he worked closely with Abril in the past.
Abril was charged on May 5 in Polk and Henderson counties for the alleged debit card fraud. He was charged in Polk County with possession of stolen goods, identity theft, unlawfully obtaining a credit card and obtaining property by false pretenses, all felonies. Abril may also face charges in Buncombe County for using the card there.
Abril told the Bulletin last week that he was asked by his ex-sister-in-law to have power of attorney over her affairs and she also signed the deed of her house over to him. He said he immediately transferred the deed of her house to one of his sons.
Abril also said he did not unlawfully obtain the debit card that she gave it to him as well as her password. Abril said after returning from a trip to Florida to see family, he couldn’t find his ex-sister-in-law, who owed him money, so he used her card.
Abril is scheduled to appear in Polk County District Court on June 6.