Trespassing Charges Against Nazareth Officers Withdrawn

Mere hours before two Nazareth police officers were scheduled to answer to trespassing charges, the summary offenses were withdrawn.

Benjamin D. Rizzotto, 35, and Scott James Ledo, 42, had been scheduled for a hearing Tuesday in front of District Judge Todd Strohe of Bangor.

Shortly before 7 p.m. July 6, according to court records, Stockertown police were called to the Stockertown Rod and Gun Club, 206 Lefevre Road. The two Nazareth officers were found to be on the gun range after posted hours.

According to www.stockertownrgc.com, the range is open 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. every Friday, the day of the incident.

Rizzotto was charged with criminal trespass - simple trespasser. And because Ledo is not a member of the gun club, he was charged with defiant trespass - posted.

The gun club's website explains -- in bold, capital letters -- that due to liability insurance, all people on any of the ranges must be members, even if they are not shooting.

Observers and guests also are not permitted on the ranges.

A call to Philip D. Lauer, attorney for Rizzotto and Ledo, was not immediately returned.