Homepage > Pittsburgh News
Members of the House of Representatives debate a bill on health care reform. Watch It Now
  • U.S. House: Health Care Debate [Also: Read The Story | In Depth]

  • Murrysville Silver-Smuggler Couple Jailed

    Valuable Metal Stolen From Electrical Plant

    POSTED: 12:21 pm EDT June 30, 2009

    A husband and wife from Loyalhanna Township will do time for smuggling an estimated millions of dollars worth of scrap silver out of a Murrysville plant in their lunch boxes.

    Westmoreland County Judge Debra Pezze on Monday sentenced Pamela Shermenti, 52, to one to two years in the county prison, and William Shermenti, 57, was ordered to serve nine to 23 months.

    The couple must also pay $250,000 in restitution to AMI DOCUCO, the electrical plant where they worked.

    WTAE Channel 4's news exchange partners at the Pittsburgh Tribune-Review reported that Assistant District Attorney Pete Flanigan said the silver was worth $2.1 million, and he asked the judge for tougher sentences to send a message.

    Pezze decided to impose sentences that were within the standard range because the Shermentis had no prior criminal records and pleaded no contest and did not proceed with a costly trial.

    Police said the silver, in pieces about the size of hockey pucks, was stolen from 2006 to 2008. Some of the scrap was sold to a dealer for about $600,000.

    The Shermentis must begin serving their sentences on July 6.




    WTAE-TV Pittsburgh on Facebook

    Links We Like

    Before you splurge on that pricey remodeling project, beware. It may not pay you back when it's time to sell. More

    Employers generally have options when it comes to hiring. Makes sure you present yourself as professionally as possible, or else. More

    Want to lose weight? Get a diet and fitness plan customized for you from Jillian Michaels of TV’s Biggest Loser. MoreClick Here

    The signs of Cancer can sometimes be very subtle. Here's a guide to help you recognize them early. More

    Health Topics & Information

    10 expert tips to promote a healthier heart. Learn why the “full-fat” version of food is often better than the “low-fat” version. More

    Sponsored Links