HOWELL – A former Howell municipal employee admitted in court on March 9 that he stole more that $10,000 in cash from the municipal office where he served as director, Monmouth County Prosecutor Christopher J. Gramiccioni announced.
Christian Jackson, 45, of Jackson, pleaded guilty to one count of third degree theft by unlawful taking in front of state Superior Court Judge Richard W. English, sitting in Freehold.
Jackson admitted he stole $10,639 in cash receipts between February 2014 and June 2016, while serving as the director of land use for Howell. The stolen cash was money the township received for permit applications from residents and business operators, according to the prosecutor.
As part of Jackson’s plea agreement with the state, the prosecutor’s office will recommend a term of probation at the time of sentencing. Jackson will also be prohibited from holding any public office, position or employment in the future.
Jackson will forfeit his retirement benefits under the state’s Public Employees Retirement System and pay restitution in the amount of $10,639, according to the prosecutor.
Sentencing is scheduled for May 26 before English.
