Cole County Judge finds Metternich guilty

Cole County Circuit Judge Daniel Green found a former Victoria’s Bridal owner guilty of felony stealing late Wednesday morning. Judge Green reviewed the case for about six months before he ruled, and he’s scheduled a December sentencing date.

Ann Metternich was charged in Cole County Circuit Court with one count of felony theft. Metternich waived a trial by jury in March, and her bench trial began in April. Judge Green scheduled the motion hearing for Wednesday to announce his decision.

ABC 17 News began investigating Victoria’s Bridal in October 2014. The indictment that was returned in Cole County Circuit Court said Ann Metternich “appropriated tuxedos and pants of a value of at least $500, which property was owned by and provided by Anderson’s Formal Wear, and the defendant appropriated such property without the consent of Anderson’s Formal Wear and with the purpose to deprive him thereof.”

ABC 17’s Joe McLean is covering Wednesday’s hearing. Joe will have updated information on Judge Green’s ruling later on our website, and on ABC 17 News.