Former Coopersburg manager Dawn Kresge pleaded guilty to stealing almost $15,000 from the borough Tuesday afternoon.
According to reports, Kresge admitted guilt to using a borough credit card for personal expenses totaling $14,980. Kresge pleaded to one count of felony access device fraud. She was originally charged with access device fraud, theft by unlawful taking or disposition, and receiving stolen property.
Kresge resigned abruptly as borough manager in February, citing a new job opportunity. She was borough manager from May 2008 to February 2012. Prior to that, Kresge was Coopersburg's police secretary from April 2005 to April 2008.
According to the complaint, the resignation sparked an internal audit. In April, new borough manager (and former mayor) Tim Paashaus uncovered "unlawful use of the borough credit card."
According to the press release from the district attorney's office, Coopersburg Police Chief Daniel Trexler requested the investigation.
The release goes on to say that Kresge used a borough credit card from November 2010 to February 2012 to pay personal expenses totaling $14,980.65. Kresge allegedly used the card to "acquire personal services and products and to make personal bill payments."
The criminal complaint also states Kresge was interviewed at the Lehigh County district attorney's office, at which time she waived her Miranda rights and admitted to using the card unlawfully.
Kresge will be in front of Judge James Anthony for sentencing Feb. 28.
