Former New Jersey Fire Commissioner Admits Stealing Funds

Prosecutors say a former South Brunswick, N.J., fire commissioner has admitted stealing more than $700,000 while serving as treasurer of one of the town’s fire districts.

Charles Hoens III, a 61-year-old South Brunswick resident, pleaded guilty Monday to theft and official misconduct. He admitted writing checks from the Fire District 3 accounts in various amounts between May 2009 and November 2012 and depositing the money in his personal accounts.

Middlesex County prosecutors say Hoens plea bargain calls for him to receive up to 10 years in priosn when he’s sentenced Feb. 23.

He will have to serve at least five years before becoming eligible for parole and will have to pay $736,847.75 in restitution.