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Former Girl Scout troop leader from Hopatcong ordered to pay $20K restitution for stealing cookie sale profits

Police say Katelin Dora-Wester failed to deposit funds collected from cookie sales and other troop activities between 2023 and 2025.

Lauren Pena

Jun 13, 2026, 6:18 AM

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A former Girl Scout troop leader from Hopatcong has been sentenced to two years of probation and ordered to pay over $20,000 in restitution for stealing proceeds from the organization.

Police say Katelin Dora-Wester failed to deposit funds collected from cookie sales and other troop activities between 2023 and 2025.

An investigation was launched in 2025 after a tip about the theft from the Girl Scouts of Northern New Jersey.

The 37-year-old later admitted to authorities that she used some of the funds for personal expenses.

A search of her home uncovered troop financial records, checks and some cash associated with cookie sales.

The Sussex County Prosecutors Office described her offenses a “significant breach of trust” for parents, volunteers and community members in a release announcing the sentencing on Friday.

“Today’s sentence reflects the principle that individuals who abuse positions of trust

for personal gain will be held accountable for their actions,” said Prosecutor Daniel M. Perez.

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