Soap Opera on Main Street Part 2

If you are just tuning in, our last installment of “As the Harrison World Turns” followed the Tancredi episode featuring allegations of domestic abuse, stalking, ripping clothes, harassment and on-going lawsuits.

That storyline was finally put to bed with the last of Tancredi and company’s lawsuits last month.

This week the town’s script writers have gotten even more far-fetched with an featuring a 91-year-old Meals-on-Wheels treasurer and prior Harrison citizen of the year.

Thanks to her position with Meals-on-Wheels Florence D’Imperio had a desk in the Harrison Community Services Office and access to the Harrison Food Pantry. She also knew when shipments of groceries or contributions were coming in.

With the help of Billy D’Imperio (Flo’s son and a supervisor in the parks department), Joe Arcara, Jack Arcara  (Joe’s cousin) Adam Straface and part-time town clerical worker Sherry Toplyn, the group allegedly took food and clothing from the pantry, using it, as a source said, as “their own personal Costco”.

According to several sources, the thefts originated with the D’Imperio family. It is thought that the others were only bit players, brought into the action more recently. It still hasn't been confirmed exactly how long each member of the alleged theft ring was taking part.

If you think a 91-year-old prior citizen of the year winner is unlikely casting for a theft ring, Toplyn is equally so. Toplyn is middle aged, dresses conservatively and is well-mannered with an upbeat, friendly, demeanor. According to her resume she went to Stanford and previously worked at Merrill Lynch and Goldman Saks as well as Director of Development for St. James’ Episcopal Church. Last year she helped found and direct Harrison's Job S.E.A.R.C.H. program.

If you met her in person you would be happy to have her mind your child or hold your bag as you ran to the restroom without a second thought.

All six have been charged with petit larceny after a two month police sting. Following their arrest and charges being placed, all six were placed on suspension from their town jobs.

While Toplyn has since tendered her resignation, sources say Flo turned up to work the morning after her arrest and had to be escorted from the building. She has since also resigned, according to sources.

The next act will  play out in court Tuesday. Criminal court matinees are held at the Harrison Municipal Building and are open to the public.

Popcorn is not provided.