Former House Speaker Clay Schexnayder was indicted Wednesday by a Baton Rouge grand jury related to the disappearance of an ancient cypress board that was last seen in Schexnayder’s legislative office in Gonzales.

A copy of the indictment obtained by The Advocate says Schexnayder "knowingly and intentionally committed theft of rare Louisiana state artifact," leading to a charge of felony theft greater than $25,000.

It also says he has been charged with malfeasance in office for "intentionally refusing to perform a duty required of him as a public officer or employee."

The board, which was displayed at the State Capitol for decades, vanished from Schexnayder’s office last year as he was ending a 12-year term in the House, the last four as the Republican speaker of the 105-member chamber.

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