The Indiana Supreme Court on Monday appointed attorney Michael D. Edwards to serve as judge pro tempore of Bicknell City Court. Edwards fills the spot left vacant after City Court Judge David Andrew Moreland was suspended Oct. 14 following his arrest on five charges of theft from the court.

Judge Moreland, a non-attorney, is accused of stealing more than $21,000 since he took the bench Jan. 1, 2008. Charges were also filed against his wife, Cindy, who worked as clerk in the court.

Judge Moreland was suspended with pay and his suspension continues until further order from the Supreme Court.

The Nov. 2 order says Edwards will be entitled to compensation from the City of Bicknell at the same rate and on the same schedule as Judge Moreland. Edwards' first day as city court judge is Nov. 16, and he will remain judge until further order. According to the Roll of Attorneys, Edwards, of Wheatland, was admitted to the bar last month.