For stealing from helper, man gets prison

The victim said she has to learn not to trust people.
By NANCY TULLIS
VINDICATOR STAFF WRITER
YOUNGSTOWN -- A man who stole thousands in cash from a woman who tried to help rehabilitate him from a life of crime will spend 18 months in prison and up to three years' probation.
Judge R. Scott Krichbaum of the Mahoning County Common Pleas Court sentenced Robert D. McCloskey II, 36, of Elm Street, Struthers, on Monday for theft and said he would recommend the maximum probation period of three years.
"What you did to this lady is disgusting, and you deserve every moment you will serve," Judge Krichbaum told McCloskey.
The victim, who lost around $8,000 to McCloskey in August 2005, made a statement in court and said she had to learn the hard way not to trust people. She said she took a chance on McCloskey, hiring him out of the Community Corrections Association for maintenance work because he had some employable skills and the potential for rehabilitation.
"You try to do the right thing, and people take advantage of you," she said.
McCloskey apologized in court and said that at one point he did have a good job and was attempting to earn money to pay the victim back. He said he would again work to pay her back after his release from prison.
What judge said
Judge Krichbaum, however, was unconvinced.
"This is a kind and beautiful lady you took advantage of," Judge Krichbaum said. "I got to meet her, and that offends me more. My only regret is the sentence I can give you is not enough.
"You and I both know you're not going to pay her back. I wish I could do more to hurt you."
Judge Krichbaum said McCloskey has a long criminal history, beginning as a juvenile in 1985. The crimes committed include aggravated burglary, theft, passing bad checks and menacing charges as an adult before the most recent theft offense.
McCloskey's attorney, Heidi Hanni, said her client understood the gravity of the situation and would work to pay the victim back.
Assistant Prosecutor J. Michael Thompson recommended a prison term.
McCloskey received credit for 129 days spent in the Mahoning County jail awaiting the disposition of his case.