Treasurer charged in thefts enters ARD

READING >> The former treasurer accused of stealing $11,950 from two Exeter High School sports booster organizations has been admitted into a special probationary program in Berks County Court.

Erick Hardwick, 38, of the first block of Mulligan Drive, Exeter Township, was arrested in September 2018 on charges he stole $8,112 from the Exeter Township High School Boys Soccer Association and $3,838 from the Exeter Township High School Boys Volleyball Boosters Association.

Investigators said Hardwick deposited the money into his personal and business accounts.

Exeter police said Hardwick, who was charged with theft and receiving stolen property, admitted taking the money.

Judge M. Theresa Johnson on Thursday admitted Hardwick into the Accelerated Rehabilitative Disposition program, known as ARD.

The ARD program gives first-time offenders the opportunity to avoid jail and clear their records if they complete the program. Defendants in ARD do not admit guilt in court.

Hardwick was put on two years of probation and ordered to perform 40 hours of community service and pay $13,562 in restitution, which includes bank fees charged to the booster groups for things such as bounced checks.

Both groups allege Hardwick stole more than he was charged with and sought higher restitution, but Assistant District Attorney Jacqueline Hammer said prosecutors charged Hardwick with what they could prove he stole.