Councilwoman Settles Shoplifting Case Via Pre-Trial Intervention

Estelle Klein received a memorable 80th birthday present Tuesday.

The Hopatcong Borough Council member, in the figurative hot seat following an Aug. 6 incident in which she was arrested and charged for allegedly stealing about $40 in filet mignon and other food items from the Netcong Shop Rite and leading police on a slow-speed vehicle chase, was accepted into the Morris County Pre-Trial Intervention Program, the Daily Record reported.

If Klein successfully completes the program, she can have her charges dismissed and retain a clean criminal record. Right now, she faces charges of shoplifting, resisting arrest, eluding police and motor vehicle offenses.

Under the program, Klein will not have to admit to a crime. She will have to serve two years of supervised probation, pay $125 in fines and complete 50 hours of community service. Her PTI participation would have no effect on her membership on the Hopatcong  Council, as she has not been convicted of a crime, the Record reported.