Lebanon Raceway employee agrees to plea in theft case

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By Denise G. Callahan, Staff Writer 11:52 AM Wednesday, October 21, 2009

A former Lebanon Raceway employee agreed to a plea deal on theft charges today, Oct. 21, but is not admitting she stole $31,300 from the track.

Haley M. Baldwin, 27 of Oregonia, appeared in Warren County Common Pleas Court one count of theft, a fourth-degree felony. She took what is know as an “Alford” plea, whereby she admits nothing but can bypass the risk of a jury trial.

Baldwin was indicted in May for allegedly making bets while she was working at the track on Jan. 17, lost, and did not pay the bets.

Judge Robert Peeler has delayed sentencing until he receives the pre-sentencing investigation. Assistant Prosecutor Travis Vieux is recommending Peeler sentence Baldwin to community control.

“Even though there is a large amount of restitution, the parties are interested in having Ms. Baldwin continue to work and make payment toward that amount,” he said.

Mel Hagemeyer, director of operations at the track, said Baldwin hasn’t paid anything back. Peeler could, regardless of an plea deals, sentence Baldwin to a maximum 18 months in prison and fine her $5,000.

Although Baldwin is not admitting she took the money, she has had money troubles in the past. She filed for Chapter 7 bankruptcy in 2005, claiming $52,324 in debts.

Contact this reporter at (513) 696-4525 or dcallahan@coxohio.com.

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