A local jeweler, facing three local theft charges, will be on three years probation under a negotiated plea agreement approved Monday in DeKalb County Criminal Court.
Judge David Patterson presided.
Mark Violet of K & M Jewelry entered a plea to two counts of theft over $1,000 and was given a three year sentence in each case to run concurrently. But Violet will be on judicial diversion probation for the duration of the sentence as long as he stays out of any further trouble.
According to Assistant District Attorney Greg Strong, Violet was accused in each case of buying stolen jewelry, which was taken from the homes of three victims. Under the plea agreement, Violet must make restitution to one victim in the amount of $3,000; $6,210 to a second victim; and $785 to a third victim. Also as part of the plea deal, Violet shall not personally buy any gold during the three year period of the probation. He is also to make a contribution of $150 to the economic crime fund.
Last August, Violet was indicted in another theft case. He was accused of selling a stolen U.S. military issue laser sight. However, according to Assistant DA Strong, that case against Violet will be dismissed upon his making restitution to the ATF in the amount of $1,000.
Theft cases against Violet were brought by the Smithville Police Department.
Although charged with theft, Violet was never implicated in the actual theft of property, only the purchase of items believed to have been stolen by someone else.
Violet was represented by local attorney Hilton Conger.
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