Former Assemblyman Coutinho Pleads Guilty to Theft

One day after resigning, a former northern New Jersey assemblyman has pleaded guilty to theft and falsifying records.

Albert Coutinho admitted he cashed checks from his family's foundation for his own benefit and never disclosed the income on state financial disclosure forms.

The Bernardino Coutinho Foundation was founded by his father in 1991 and played a leading role in Newark's annual Portugal Day Festival.

The Star-Ledger of Newark reports the 44-year-old faces up 6 1/2 years in prison, however the state Attorney General's Office is recommending probation.

Under terms of Thursday's plea deal, Coutinho agrees never to hold public office and to reimburse the foundation $32,500.

Democrats have chosen Eliana Pintor Marin to serve the remainder of his term in the 29th district, which includes Newark and Belleville.

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