WICHITA (AP) – A former public works director who admitted stealing equipment from a Kansas county is pleading with a federal judge to spare him from prison.

Steven Collier has pleaded guilty to two counts of theft from Barber County in 2010. He agreed to pay more than $116,310 in restitution.

His sentencing was rescheduled to June 12. Collier’s lawyer attorney filed a motion Monday seeking a shorter term than the 12 to 18 months required by federal guidelines.

Collier says he strayed from his marriage and stole because of a toxic relationship with his girlfriend. He says he used the money to pay debts and buy things for the woman.

Collier says he now has a comfortable monthly income and needs to remain free so he can support his disabled wife.