Erie County District Attorney John J. Flynn announces that 52-year-old John Cinelli of Grand Island pleaded guilty before Erie County Court Judge Sheila A. DiTullio to one count of Criminal Possession of a Controlled Substance in the Seventh Degree, a Class “A” misdemeanor.

The defendant, while working as a paramedic for the Town of Tonawanda, stole various prescription medications from a drug drop-off box located in the lobby of the town police department.

As part of his plea, Cinelli must complete a judicial diversion program.

Cinelli faces a maximum of 1 year in jail when sentenced. He is scheduled to report back on February 28, 2020 at 9:30 a.m.

DA Flynn commends Lieutenant Tom Moore and Captain Joe Fennell of the Town of Tonawanda Police Department for their work in the investigation.

The case was prosecuted by Assistant District Attorney Alicia M. Lilley of the DA’s Felony Trials Bureau.