Falls Township’s public works director is set to enter a program for first-time offenders following allegations that he misused over $9,200 in taxpayer funds for personal purchases.
Advertisements
Jason Richard Lawson, 52, of Falls Township’s Fairless Hills section, appeared before District Judge Christopher O’Neill on Monday on multiple charges including theft and forgery. The case was heard in Warminster Township after District Judge John Galloway recused himself.
The public works director has been free on unsecured bail since his arrest this past summer.
The 52-year-old man is currently on unpaid leave and is expected to be terminated from his township job, Lawson confirmed.
Advertisements
During a Monday court hearing, Lawson agreed to apply for the Accelerated Rehabilitative Disposition (ARD) program, which is available to first-time, nonviolent offenders. Completion of the ARD program could eventually lead to expungement of his criminal record.
Following the hearing, Lawson told LevittownNow.com he planned to enter the program on the advice of his attorney.
Advertisements
Deputy District Attorney Marc Furber said the ARD program fits Lawson due to the nonviolent nature of the crime and he has agreed to restitution to the township.
The prosecutor stated that investigators stand by the allegations made when the charges were filed.
According to court documents, Lawson is accused of using a township-issued credit card and checks to fund personal expenses at a Home Depot and a Fred Beans Ford dealership in Middletown Township.
Advertisements
The purchases, which allegedly occurred between March 2019 and March 2020, included items like LED lighting, plumbing equipment, and a backhoe rental, authorities said.
Investigators also allege Lawson falsified records to cover up these purchases, listing his home address for some orders.
Advertisements
He was accused of misrepresenting an invoice for fuel injectors intended for a township vehicle, which instead matched a vehicle associated with a family member, who has not been charged.
The total sum of the questionable transactions is believed to be at least $9,214.42, according to authorities.
Advertisements
Lawson has been with Falls Township since 2016 and previously served as Bristol Township’s public works director.
Furber, the prosecutor assigned to the case, remains committed to upholding the initial allegations despite Lawson’s entry into the rehabilitation program.
Advertisements
Advertisement
Convenient Legal Access to High Quality Cannabis Just A Few Minutes Away!
Canna Remedies: Educate Curate Elevate
Report a correction via email | Editorial standards and policies
