New Jersey Politician Faces Charges in Million Dollar Theft Case

James Donio, the former president of the Hammonton First group, was taken into custody over the weekend. Police allege that he stole more than 914,000 dollars from an 80 year old local businesswoman who believed he was a close friend. The activity reportedly spanned from 2019 to 2025.

Investigators claim Donio used unauthorized checks, fake leases, and an improper mortgage discharge to drain money from the victim. The scheme came to light after people close to the woman noticed suspicious patterns in her financial records and contacted the authorities.

Donio now faces five counts of theft, along with additional charges for money laundering and falsifying records. A pre indictment conference is scheduled for September 2nd. Hammonton police are asking anyone with information regarding this case to come forward.