The record has finally been set straight.

"Mark Lakers has agreed to enter a plea, to a low-level misdemeanor charge today, to resolve this matter, without further litigation," said Lakers' attorney, Clarence Mock.

Lakers, former Democratic candidate for Governor, pleaded guilty Friday, to falsifying public records.

"It was Mr. Lakers' feeling that continued vigorous defense of these allegations would simply serve as a distraction to the real issues that are involved in the Nebraska Gubernatorial campaign," said Mock.

Lakers' attorney also cited cost and time for reasons he entered the guilty plea.

Attorney General Jon Bruning said without that decision, criminal charges could have been possible.

"Our goal here, was to have Mr. Lakers take responsibility for his actions, and to ensure the public knew the truth," said Bruning.

According to campaign records, Lakers filed three reports.

About 50 of 80 pledges were falsified, adding up to about $333,000.

$98,500 in pledges could not be verified.

Bruning said only $165,000 in pledges were actually legitimate.

"This was not accidental, by the way. It would be very, very different if a candidate made an accidental mistake with a pledge based on a misunderstanding with a donor. These were not in any way misunderstandings. Most of these donors had never even spoken to Mr. Lakers," said Bruning.

Lakers dropped out of the race in July.

He will be fined $500.