Judge sets $10,000 signature bond for former hospital foundations director accused of stealing $46,000

By Shereen Siewert

RHINELANDER, Wis. — A Rhinelander woman accused of stealing nearly $46,000 from a northwoods hospital foundation is free on bond, after an initial appearance this week in Oneida County Circuit Court.

Kim Baltus, of Minocqua, was also ordered not to have any contact with the St. Mary’s and Sacred Heart Hospital Foundations she is accused of defrauding, according to court records. She can also not enter any Ascension buildings unless she personally needs emergency medical assistance.

Baltus faces one felony count of theft in a business setting greater than $10,000. The charges were filed July 9.

WJFW reports the alleged thefts spanned about 18 months. Police say Baltus admitted taking the funds to pay family bills. She is free on a $10,000 signature bond.

Oneida County District Attorney Mike Schiek requested the signature bond, telling Judge Michael Bloom that Baltus and her attorney are seeking a resolution to the case, WJFW reports.

A preliminary hearing is set for Aug. 28.

WJFW contributed to this report. Photo courtesy of WJFW.