Former DeKalb 2nd Ward Ald. and mayoral candidate Michael Welsh was arrested and charged with violating copyright laws after allegedly selling illegal Boy Scout patches.

Welsh, who was arrested Aug. 9 at the 1993 National Scout Jamboree at Fort A.P. Hill near Richmond, Va., is free on a $25,000 personal recognizance bond. According to the terms of his bond, Welsh may not leave the country and cannot change his residence.

Federal authorities apparently found tens of thousands of patches in Welsh’s truck, which had a parking sticker that was registered to another vehicle.

Federal authorities said they have been investigating Welsh for several years. According to an affidavit given by FBI Agent Dan Elven Estrem, Welsh told the agent the patches were not authorized by any part of Boy Scouts of America. The organization must authorize any patches that bear its logo. Welsh apparently did not receive any authorization.

Welsh had been warned in person and in writing about making unauthorized patches and bringing them to the jamboree.

Welsh waived his right to a preliminary hearing. At the preliminary hearing, the defense may examine witnesses and evidence against him.

Welsh has returned to DeKalb, but refuses to comment on the case to the press. His attorney, Richmond lawyer Dennis Dohnal, would not comment on the case either because he “does not try his cases in the press.”

No one from Welsh Industries patch-making company would return calls to The Northern Star.

Welsh lost the mayoral election in April against incumbent mayor Greg Sparrow. Welsh and Sparrow clashed several times before the election where Welsh accused Sparrow of hindering DeKalb’s economic development.

If convicted, Welsh faces corporate fines up to $1 million and up to five years in jail.

Welsh’s case could go to a grand jury to determine if there is sufficient evidence to charge him officially with violating copyright laws.

The Associated Press contributed to this story.

Federal authorities apparently found tens of thousands of unauthorized Boy Scout patches in Welsh’s truck, which had a parking sticker that was registered to another vehicle.