The Honorable Joseph R. Biden, III

Carvel State Office Building 

820 N. French Street

Wilmington, DE 19801

Dear Attorney General Biden,

It was with great disappointment that I read in today’s News Journal that William Hitch, charged with nearly 100  felony counts of stealing more than $150,000 from the Laurel School District over the course of eight years, has gotten off with what amounts to a mere slap on the wrist.

Given the scope and length of times that the crimes were committed, along with the initial charges, how is it possible that a person who has so blatantly and wantonly misused and betrayed the people’s trust is able to reach a plea agreement with the Delaware Department of Justice that requires him to serve no prison time?  He will not serve one day in prison under this plea agreement.   

According to the article, a spokesman from your office said that Mr. Hitch will “literally pay for his crimes.”  I am not all impressed with his statement and hardly consider this a punishment that fits the crimes.  I imagine there are quite a number of people in Delaware prisons who would be happy to make a payment – an “interest-free reimbursement” as is being demanded in this case – to get out of jail.  I have to question and wonder why Mr. Hitch appears to be treated so lightly.  I recall other people who have embezzled from their employers being sentenced to prison.  I am requesting that your office provide me with the sentences for similar crimes of embezzlement – in both the public and private sectors– over the past 24 months. 

This plea deal sends a wrong and confusing message regarding our criminal justice system.  It seems to be a double standard and what I take away from the plea is that public corruption is treated more lightly – extremely lightly in this case – than similar private sector crimes.  Additionally, it would appear that one can “benefit” from the criminal justice system if they are in an economic and financial position that allows them to cut a check or enter a payment plan.

I am formally requesting that your office withdraw the current plea agreement and ask that your office and the courts impose a more just punishment consistent with Mr. Hitch’s crimes.  The public’s trust has been violated, not only by Mr. Hitch but also by our justice system as the result of this plea deal.  When a crime has been committed, appropriate justice should and must be served.  I find it very hard to believe that the vast majority of the public would consider that Mr. Hitch’s punishment was appropriate.

Thank you for your consideration.  I look forward to hearing back from you as soon as possible.

Sincerely,

 

Gregory F. Lavelle

State Representative

11th District