FARMINGTON – Evidence in a criminal case against Kenneth Teele of Gray was turned over to Franklin County court officials last week, according to James Andrews, assistant district attorney.

Linda Bean Folkers of Cumberland had purchased two circa-1879 books of railroad stock certificates at auction in February for more than $10,000. The books and other railroad relics worth more than $31,000 were alleged to have been stolen from the Phillips Historical Society by Teele, the former president.

Appearing in Franklin County Superior Court on Dec. 3 on contempt charges, Folkers had not complied with an initial subpoena to provide the documents, nor had she brought them with her to court that day, after having received a second subpoena.

After hearing several vague answers from Folkers regarding the documents’ whereabouts, Justice Joseph Jabar continued her contempt case until Dec. 21, directing her to show up then with the books or with an attorney.

Because the state’s attorneys had received the evidence they were seeking from Folkers, district attorneys allowed that she did not need to appear in court Tuesday.

Teele is scheduled to go on trial in February, and Folkers has been subpoenaed to appear as a witness.

According to Andrews, if Teele is found guilty, it is unclear what will happen to the books and whether Folkers will regain her investment. Cyr Auction Co. in Gray held the money collected from the auction after it was informed of the possible theft, so it is possible the money will be refunded.

Both the society and Folkers are entitled to restitution, Andrews said.

Attorney Walter Hanstein is representing the historical society to try to recover property and damages in relation to the case. He said Wednesday that he may pursue a civil case for the society depending on the outcome of the trial.