Hopatcong Man Dies After Getting Probation for Stealing From Ex-Boss

A Hopatcong man died after he was sentenced last week to two years probation for stealing from his former employer's home to help pay for his drug habit.

Lawrence Mastorelli, 21, was sentenced on July 2 to two years probation and was ordered to perform 100 hours of community service, continue drug treatment and abstain from drug use and contact with those who use drugs. He was also ordered to pay restitution in the amount of $2,375, fines and penalties, and pay for a DNA sample.

However, Mastorelli died after his sentencing, Hopatcong Police Lt. Thomas Kmetz said Tuesday. The circumstances of his death were not released.

Mastorelli pleaded guilty in March to third-degree theft and admitted taking jewelry from a Hopatcong home on Feb. 27, 2013.

Mastorelli was accused of burglarizing his former employer's home. He was originally charged with burglary, theft and possession of prescription legend drugs.

Mastorelli faced additional drug charges in October 2013 when he was found passed out in his grandmother's bathroom in Flanders. He was charged with heroin possession, being under the influence of a controlled substance and possessing drug paraphernalia and a hypodermic needle.