Sentence deferred for bad checks

A 41-year-old Kalispell man received a one-year deferred sentence for issuing a bad check, felony common scheme.

Ronald Hatten, who graduated from Columbia Falls High School, was charged with writing nine bad checks drawn on a Pan Handle State Bank account in July 2009 that totaled $510. With victim’s fees and court fees, the total owed was $710.

Hatten posted a $1,500 bond on June 21 and was turned down by the public defender’s office. He pleaded not guilty on July 11.

Flathead County District Court Judge Robert Allison sentenced Hatten on Aug. 29. Hatten was also ordered to pay a $200 fine and $75 surcharge.