Court dismisses cop’s theft charge

BY STACI WILSON

Theft charges lodged against a local police officer were dismissed Wednesday (Oct. 29) in Clifford District Court.

Charges had been brought against Montrose and Lanesboro patrolwoman Rhonda Smith, 43, after a friend alleged the officer had taken money from her wallet in July.

Smith had been placed on unpaid leave from both police departments pending the outcome of the case.
Following a short executive session Monday evening, Montrose Borough Council voted to terminate Smith’s employment from the police force.

Smith’s friend, identified in court documents as Christina Lopez, had told state police investigators about $2,400 in cash was missing from her wallet after she stayed at Smith’s residence.

Lopez also told police Smith arranged to meet her at a park in Montrose, handed her $700 she said she had needed for plane ticket for her son; but denied taking the remainder of the money.

The case had been transferred from the Susquehanna County district attorney’s office to the Attorney General for prosecution.

The theft charge, as well as one count of receiving stolen property, was dismissed by Magisterial District Judge Suzanne Brainard.