Jamestown, North Dakota (trfnews.i234.me) — A man who worked for the Jamestown Water Department is now facing a felony theft charge.
Court records say the case involves the theft of used water meters worth more than $14,000.
What court records say
James Marsolek was employed by the Jamestown Water Department at the time of the alleged thefts.
According to the criminal complaint, the City of Jamestown has been replacing its water meters.
The old meters were removed and stored inside a secured city building.
Records say the city planned to sell the used meters later for their brass value.
Between January and December of this year, court documents say Marsolek entered the storage building about 50 times.
During those visits, he allegedly removed used water meters without permission.
The complaint says he then sold the meters at the West End Recycling Center.
Records state the total amount sold came to 9,632 pounds of brass.
The total payout to Marsolek was listed as $14,437.
Interview with investigators
Under questioning, court records say Marsolek spoke with the Jamestown police chief.
During that interview, he reportedly admitted he has a gambling problem.
Investigators did not name any other suspects in the case.
The City of Jamestown reported the loss after reviewing recycling records.
Those records allegedly showed repeated sales tied to Marsolek.
Charge filed
James Marsolek is now charged with felony theft of property.
If convicted, the charge carries potential prison time under North Dakota law.
Formal court proceedings are expected to continue in Stutsman County.
Marsolek has not entered a plea as of the latest court filing.
More information on felony theft laws can be found through the
North Dakota Court System.
Help for gambling addiction is available through the
National Council on Problem Gambling.
I’m Chris Harper reporting for TRF News.