A Morris County, NJ grand jury indicted a Somerset County judicial employee for allegedly stealing more than $135,000 from a woman just minutes after she died.
The 59-year-old Old Bridge, NJ man is accused of taking $135,517 and attempting to steal another $430,600 in pension, life insurance, and retirement benefits from the woman shortly after she passed away in 2013. The woman worked with the defendant, who was an administrative supervisor.
According to authorities, the woman’s caretaker reported her death on July 8, 2013. The defendant then allegedly tried to make himself the primary beneficiary for her life insurance and pension benefits. Although the NJ Division of Pension Benefits denied the requested change, the defendant was still allegedly able to transfer in excess of $135,000 from the woman’s deferred retirement account into his personal account.
After the accusations were made against the defendant, he was suspended without pay.
A grand jury sitting in Morristown, NJ indicted the defendant on charges of theft by deception and attempted theft by deception. The case had been transferred to Morris County from Somerset County.
In New Jersey, theft by deception is a very serious crime. As set forth by N.J.S.A. 2C:20-4, theft of more than $75,000 is classified as a second degree felony. The suspect in this case could face up to 10 years in state prison if convicted.
To learn more, read the NJ.com article entitled “Court Employee Indicted for Allegedly Stealing from Woman Moments after She Died.“
Theft by Deception Charges Morris County NJ
If you or a loved one has been arrested and accused of theft by deception in Morris County, we can help. Contact our experienced Morris County criminal defense lawyers at our Morristown offices now for immediate assistance and a free initial consultation.