FLOWER MOUND, Texas -- The race for mayor in Flower Mound began is heating up as voters learn of allegations that the mayor pro tem committed a crime more than five years ago.

The case against Stephani Spruill (pictured, left) stemmed from allegations that she mishandled nearly $5,000 in rent checks while working as an apartment manager in 1988.

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Live Poll: Criminal Past OK For Candidates?

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"I would hope if someone had questions, they would come and ask me," Spruill said. "I have been fairly public about it ... I wanted my supporters to know before I ever decide to run."

While the charges did not result in a criminal conviction, Flower Mound's current mayor pro tem did receive deferred adjudication, five years probation and was also ordered to pay restitution.

"I made restitution for the amount they felt was owed," Spruill said. "I don't have any kind of conviction."

However, the black eye on her record could be Spruill's toughest opponent in the mayoral race.

Spruill's challenger, Jody Smith, (pictured, right) said she was dumbfounded to learn about Spruill's criminal past.

"One of the platforms I'm running on is bringing honor and integrity back to town hall, and bringing dignity back to it," Smith said. "This leaves me questioning what other issues we may not even know about."

Despite the controversy, Spruill is still legally eligible to run for office because she does not have a criminal conviction, according to the town attorney.

"I think it would have been embarrassing if it was a secret I was trying to keep. I really believe in living a transparent life," Spruill said.

Early voting for the seat is already under way. The election is May 15.

Proposition 5 is also on the ballot. The initiative would force those in office to forfeit his or her office if convicted of a felony misdemeanor or crime of moral turpitude.