By: Richard L. Smith
A lengthy investigation has led to the arrest of a Ringwood woman accused of orchestrating a scheme involving theft, forgery, and money laundering totaling more than $700,000, according to information released by the Union County Prosecutor’s Office.
Officials said Ms. Colleen Hallenbeck, 54, faces multiple charges, including one count of first-degree money laundering, two counts of second-degree theft, one count of third-degree theft, and three counts of third-degree forgery.
The investigation, led by Detective Christine Spady of the Union County Prosecutor’s Office Special Prosecutions Unit, revealed that Hallenbeck misappropriated funds from estate accounts while working as a paralegal at a Union County law firm between 2018 and 2024.
According to the Prosecutor’s Office, Hallenbeck was entrusted with managing the distribution of estate funds to beneficiaries.
However, she allegedly wrote hundreds of unauthorized checks over several years, diverting funds to accounts she owned or controlled.
The total amount embezzled exceeded $700,000, officials said.
Hallenbeck surrendered to detectives from the Prosecutor’s Office on December 12, 2024.
“This case highlights the importance of safeguarding fiduciary responsibilities and ensuring accountability in handling estate matters,” Union County Prosecutor William A. Daniel stated.
The investigation remains ongoing, and additional details are expected to emerge as prosecutors continue their review. Hallenbeck’s legal representation has not yet commented on the charges. 
The Union County Prosecutor’s Office urges anyone with relevant information to come forward as the inquiry progresses.