Franklin Home & School Association Treasurer Arrested for Theft

FRANKLIN BOROUGH, NJ – On February 4, 2015 the Franklin Police Department received a report of theft and fraudulent activity from the Franklin Elementary School – Franklin Home & School Association.

The Franklin Borough Police Department Detective Bureau investigated.

The investigation led to the arrest of Maria D. Batista, 40 years of age, of Franklin New Jersey. Detectives alleged that Ms. Batista, the treasurer of the Franklin Home & School Association utilized checks to pay for personal sundries, food, home goods, fuel, and legal expenses for other family members. Ms. Batista is further alleged to have used a debit / credit card strictly associated with the Franklin Home & School Association, for personal use between 7/2014 to the present. Presently the loss to the association is over $8,000.00.

Ms. Batista was charged with one count of theft and one count of fraudulently credit card use. She was released pending a Court appearance in Sussex County Superior Court.

The investigation is still active as more information is received and the bank accounts of Franklin Home & School Association are further analyzed.

Any person who can further assist the Police Department with this investigation, is asked to please contact Det. Nevin Mattessich nmattessich@franklinpd.org 973-827-7700 ext. 231 or Detective Rob Vander Ploeg, rvanderploeg@franklinpd.org 973-827-7700 ext. 237.

Anonymous information and or tips relating to the incident will be accepted.

The complaints that were filed are merely accusations and the defendants are presumed innocent until proven guilty. The charges may be presented to a grand jury for potential indictment.

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