STILLWATER (AP) — A former Washington County sheriff's deputy has been convicted in the theft of drugs from a locked pharmaceutical dropbox.

Jurors on Monday convicted 43-year-old Ricky Harry Gruber of Oakdale of misconduct by a public employee and illegal possession of prescription drugs.

While he was employed as a deputy, Gruber was seen on hidden surveillance in February removing the secure drug drum from the pharmaceutical drop-off box at the sheriff's office.

Gruber was seen bringing the bin back 13 minutes later. He was then arrested.

Gruber admitted stealing the key to the secure area and making a copy for his own use. He admitted taking prescription drugs from the drum and placing them in a red bag in his office.

Sentencing is set for Jan. 10.

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