COOPERSTOWN, N.D. (KFGO) – The former sheriff of Griggs County, who was charged with tampering with public records has changed his plea to guilty.

Michael Beaver entered an Alford Plea, meaning he agrees the state has enough evidence to convict him if the case went to trial. During a county commission meeting last May, Beaver admitted to altering a copy of an email to hide how much help he asked for from the Highway Patrol during a fundraiser in Cooperstown.

Beaver will be on probation for a year. During that time, he must complete 50 hours of community service, can’t own or have guns, and can’t be employed as a peace officer.

The plea agreement includes a deferred imposition, meaning if Beaver completes all the conditions of the deal, his guilty plea will be withdrawn, the case will be dismissed, and the file will be sealed.