GALESBURG, Ill. (AP) — A preliminary hearing has been scheduled for Jan. 26 in the case of a Knox County official accused of stealing money from the political party she's affiliated with.

Recorder of Deeds Paula Monzo is accused of writing about $3,500 in checks on the account of the Knox County Democratic Central Committee over the past year. Galesburg Police reports indicate Monzo was having trouble paying bills and had a cocaine habit.

She is not accused of misappropriating any county funds, though a special audit will determine that for sure.

Judge Dwayne Morrison set the preliminary hearing date to meet the schedule of special prosecutor Chuck Zalar. State's Attorney John Pepmeyer removed himself from the case, saying he is a potential witness and a member of the organization that is the alleged victim.

Monzo is free on bond.