Woman accused of stealing $16,000 from Linden employer

LINDEN A Hillside woman is accused of stealing $16,000 in payments made to a dental office where she worked.

Carla A. Sousa, 27, was arrested Wednesday by Linden detectives and charged with forgery and theft of more than $500, both third-degree crimes.

Sousa worked for Magic Smile Dental, a family dental practice on North Wood Avenue, Linden.

The office was notified by the bank in June that checks made out to the business were allegedly diverted into Sousa's personal bank account.

Police were notified in September, and following a two-week investigation by Detective Kevin Mikolajczyk, an arrest warrant was issued for Sousa.

Police said she was released after posting $20,000 bail pending a court appearance scheduled for later this month.

If convicted, Sousa could face a three- to five-year prison term and up to $15,000 in fines.

Staff Writer Suzanne Russell: 732-565-7335; srussell@mycentraljersey.com