A Lancaster man admitted to stealing more than $60,000 while serving as treasurer of a local anti-puppy mill non-profit group.
Donald L. Hostetter, 71, pleaded guilty to felony theft Wednesday in Lancaster County Court, and will be sentenced following a background check.
Manheim Township police charged Hostetter with stealing from United Against Puppy Mills Inc. between 2013 and 2014 to pay for a scam he apparently fell victim to.
Hostetter told police he received a call informing him that he won a sweepstakes and needed to pay associated fees upfront. Hostetter said that’s why he took the money.
Hostetter previously admitted to the thefts to police and pleaded guilty before Lancaster County Judge Howard Knisely, who will order sentence.
Paying back the stolen funds will be part of the sentence against Hostetter, who doesn’t have a prior record.
Assistant District Attorney Amber Czerniakowski is prosecuting the case.
Manheim Township police Detective Keith Kreider filed charges.
MEDIA CONTACT: Brett A. Hambright, 717-295-2041; bhambright@co.lancaster.pa.us