A Whitefish area couple accused of stealing more than $30,000 in tools from Flathead Valley construction sites have pleaded not guilty.
Kelly H. Hilbun, 47, and Terri Ann Hilbun, 46, appeared in Flathead County District Court on Thursday. Kelly Hilbun pleaded not guilty to three counts of felony theft, while Terri Hilbun pleaded not guilty to one count.
Hundreds of stolen items were recovered from the Hilbuns’ home last month, and authorities are checking to see if the couple are connected to multiple tool thefts dating back four years. Those losses total more than $100,000.
The case surfaced after an alleged victim saw some of his tools for sale online, bought them to confirm they were his and then contacted the sheriff’s office.
While serving the search warrant, detectives also discovered a methamphetamine lab and a small amount of the finished drug. The couple have pleaded not guilty to drug possession and to operating an unlawful clandestine laboratory, both felonies.
Kelly Hilbun remains in custody at the county jail. Terri Hilbun has posted bail.
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