The former head of the Montana Heritage Commission, which preserves and manages Virginia City and Reeder’s Alley under the Department of Commerce, pleaded guilty Tuesday to felony theft by embezzlement and money laundering and could face 30 years in prison if sentences run consecutively.

Michael Elijah Allen, who was 49 when charged, admitted to embezzling and money laundering around $300,000, court documents state.

Allen's defense attorney Peter Lacny asked his client multiple questions, who replied "yes" to each one.

Throughout questioning and admissions of guilt, Casey Jack Steinke , a defendant involved with Allen, was mentioned.

Steinke pleaded guilty Sept. 11 and will be sentenced Nov. 24 at 10:30 a.m. before Lewis and Clark County District Court Judge Kathy Seeley.

The He

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