Former Niantic Fire Chief Stephen M. Wargo, who was charged earlier this year with first-degree larceny for allegedly collecting money for shifts he did not work in East Lyme, was granted a special form of probation Thursday that will dismiss the charges against him if he stays out of trouble for the next two years.
Judge Karyl Carrasquilla granted Wargo's application for accelerated rehabilitation in a New London court Thursday. Under its terms, Wargo cannot be arrested in the next two years and also must complete 50 hours of community service within that time. If he successfully follows these conditions, the charges will be dropped and his record will be wiped clean.
“While the crime is serious in nature, it’s not of such a serious nature that would prevent you from participating in and benefitting from the program,” Carrasquilla said, while Wargo stood before her. “I do not feel that you are likely to re-offend. ... This was not a crime involving any violence.”