EMPORIA, Kan. (WIBW) - An out-of-county judge will hear the case of a woman accused of stealing money from the United Way of the Flint Hills.

Tina Andrews made her first appearance Wednesday on 19 felony counts, including forgery and theft.

Andrews worked for the United Way from 2007 until earlier this year, when an audit revealed missing money. Court documents show an estimated $16,000 was taken from last September thru March.

Lyon County judges recused themselves, citing relationships with the organization or potential witnesses. Dickinson County Magistrate Judge Keith Collett will handle future proceedings, including a preliminary hearing set for September 28th.

Andrews has stated she took the money to help with legal expenses for her son.