SWOYERSVILLE -- A mother and daughter on trial for allegedly stealing $734,000 were acquitted of theft charges in Luzerne County Wednesday afternoon.
The jury did find Catherine Drago and Carol Gamble guilty of misdemeanor state charitable organizations law violations, for questionable bookkeeping at the Swoyersville Volunteer Hose Company No. 1.
“I’m just thankful to God it’s over with, honey,” said Drago.
Following the split verdict inside the Luzerne County Courthouse, prosecutors told Newswatch 16 that they still don’t know what happened to the money.
"The Bureau of Charitable Organizations was doing a routine audit and check on their books. They gave inaccurate or incomplete answers at every attempt,” said Tom Hogans. "There was no evidence of where the money went. We checked into that. We honestly have no idea where the money went."
Some people who used to play bingo games at the fire company said they’re disappointed with the verdict.
"I think it should be re-tried if at all possible,” said Michelle Hapeman. “It actually shut the fire hall down because of what they did. So we have less protection in Swoyersville."
Drago and Gamble remain free on bail until their sentencing, which is set for November.
Both women could be ordered to pay fines or face up to five years in prison.