Morris County Prosecutor Fredric M. Knapp and Chief James Simonetti of the Roxbury Township Police Department announce that Matthew Hofgesang, 47, of Kenvil, was charged with one count of theft (N.J.S.A. 2C:20-3(a)), a disorderly persons offense.
An investigation revealed that Hofgesang, lead mechanic for the Roxbury Township Board of Education, used the override key to obtain gasoline and diesel fuel without the permission or the authority of the Board of Education. The theft of fuel occurred on diverse dates between June 1, 2014 and March 7, 2015. During the course of the investigation, both visual and video surveillance captured the defendant obtaining fuel.
Hofgesang admitted that he stole fuel and estimated the total to be approximately 1900 gallons. He also admitted using the override key to obtain the fuel, then used the fuel for personal use as well as sold some of the fuel to third parties for his personal gain.
Hofgesang confirmed that he knew he did not have permission or authority to take the fuel.
The Honorable Stuart A, Minkowitz, P.J.Cr. sentenced Hofgesang today to one year probation, restitution in the amount of $8,150.00 payable to the Roxbury Township Board of Education.
He also ordered that the defendant forfeit his public employment in the State of New Jersey.