Grayslake PTO theft trial delayed again
The trial of a former Grayslake parent teacher organization member accused of stealing more than $10,000 has been delayed again.
This time, the trial of Elizabeth S. Bako, 41, was pushed back because a key police witness for the prosecution will not be able to testify during the previous date of Oct. 7.
The trial is now slated to begin Jan 6, in front of Lake County Judge Victoria Rossetti.
“We’re frustrated at the delays,” said Frederick PTO volunteer Sharon Fenn. “The money needs to be returned.”
Bako faces two counts of felony theft and two counts of using a debit card with intent to defraud.
Authorities allege Bako, of the 300 block of Woodland Drive in Grayslake, knowingly obtained unauthorized control of between $10,000 and $100,000 from the Frederick School PTO from April 2011 to May 2012.
Charges also allege Bako took more than $150 from a debit card assigned to the PTO between July 1, 2011 and May 31, 2012.
If found guilty of the most serious theft charge, Bako could spend up to 7 years in prison.
Bako and defense attorney Christopher Lombardo did not comment following Wednesday’s court hearing.