Woman Sentenced to 3 Years in Prison for Theft

Published on March 15, 2013

Acting Morris County Prosecutor Fredric M. Knapp announced today that the Honorable Robert Gilson, J.S.C. sentenced Kathleen Lawes, 47 years old, of Kenvil (Roxbury Township), New Jersey to 3 years in State Prison in connection with the theft of over $123,000 from a law firm where she was previously employed.

On February 1, 2013, Lawes pled guilty to Second Degree Theft.

The defendant had been employed at the law firm since 1981. From September 24, 2009 to January 10, 2012, in her capacity as legal assistant/secretary for the firm, the defendant stole over $123,000 for her personal use. The money was stolen from the attorney trust account of the firm and used for her personal benefit. As the firm's bookkeeper, she covered up the theft for three years until her actions were discovered in 2012 by members of the firm.

Judge Gilson sentenced Lawes to 3 years in New Jersey State Prison. The defendant was ordered to pay restitution to the law firm in the amount of $3,500 and $122,874.12 to CNA Insurance.

Assistant Prosecutor Brian DiGiacomo represented the State at the sentencing.

Acting Morris County Prosecutor Knapp thanked Police Chief James Simonetti and the Roxbury Township Police Department and the Assistant Prosecutors and Investigators from the Morris County Prosecutor's Office for the efforts resulting in today's sentence.

Any inquiries can be directed to First Assistant Morris County Prosecutor/SDAG Thomas Zelante at 973-285-6252 or tzelante@co.morris.nj.us.