A Hesston couple who are accused of going to a Newton Walmart and coughing on other customers, claiming they had Covid-19 are now facing felony charges.
The Harvey County Chief Deputy Attorney Jason Lane filed formal charges Thursday against 29-year-old Hazel Hamrick and 47-year-old Ernest Williams. It happened April 6.
The two are accused of telling and portraying to customers and employees that Williams had the virus. Lane accuses the couple of trying to cause fear.
Hamrick is facing two felony counts of criminal threat. They carry a penalty of 5 to 17 months in prison and a fine of up to $100,000.
Williams is facing two felony count of aiding and abetting criminal threat. It carries the same penalty.
Both also face a misdemeanor count of disorderly conduct which carries a maximum penalty of one month in jail and a $500 fine. Both have posted bond and make their first court appearance June 2.
