A Buffalo County man will spend time in jail for stealing tens of thousands of dollars from a 4H fund. A judge sentenced John Gehrke, 57, of Mondovi to 90 days in jail and five years of probation.

Investigators say Gehrke stole an estimated $21,000 from the Buffalo County 4H Leaders Association account.

Other board members say he was the treasurer and they suspected theft.

He told police the downturn in the economy is hurting his floral shop and that all the money was put toward his business.

Gehrke must do 1,000 hours community service. He also cannot handle any money from an organization or person.