Founder of anti-human trafficking organization files no contest plea in Provo fraud case

PROVO, Utah (KUTV) — A woman accused of defrauding the anti-human trafficking nonprofit she founded made a guilty plea in Provo District Court on Thursday.

Candace Lierd, founder of Exitus, pleaded no contest to nine counts of federal charges, including second-degree felonies for a variety of unlawful activities, theft by deception, and communications fraud.

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A “nocontrary” plea shows that Lierd does not admit guilt but accepts the court’s verdict.

Several other charges against Lierd, including additional counts of communications fraud, theft and identity fraud, were dropped, meaning they cannot be refiled.

Lierd was released from the Utah County Jail on conditions: Lierd must wear a GPS monitor, have no contact with any victims involved in the case, and must report to the Adult Probation and Release Office in Provo for a criminal history evaluation.

Her sentencing is scheduled for October 17.

The hearing will determine how long Lierd will have to spend in prison and whether she may be required to make restitution.

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