Bus Driver Admits Stealing From Donation Box
NEW BRUNSWICK – A Middlesex County shuttle bus driver admitted stealing cash from a donation box used by passengers who make voluntary contributions in appreciation of free rides to various destinations around the county, Middlesex County Prosecutor Bruce J. Kaplan announced yesterday.
Mark B. Wolfthal, 50, of the Parlin section of Sayreville waived his right to have his case presented to a grand jury in Middlesex County and pleaded guilty to a count of fourth degree theft on Dec. 8.
During a hearing in New Brunswick before Superior Court Judge Frederick P. DeVesa, the defendant admitted taking a total of $205 from the donation box on various occasions between Jan. 1, 2008, and Sept. 15, 2009.
Under a plea agreement reached with Middlesex County Assistant Prosecutor Brian D. Gillet, the defendant faces a probationary term of up to five years. In addition, he will be required to repay the stolen cash, must perform community service and will be forever banned from holding a public job in New Jersey.
Wolfthal was charged on Sept. 24, after an investigation by Sgt. Daniel DelBagno and Investigator Gary Charydczak of the Middlesex County Prosecutor’s Office revealed that the bus driver took cash from the donation box, which was affixed to the dashboard of the minibus he drove for Middlesex County Area Transit. He was suspended without pay after he was charged.
Wolfthal is scheduled to be sentenced by DeVesa on Feb. 22, 2010.
