Thomas J. Loewke, a 52-year-old former New York State Police sergeant, was sentenced on Monday to two years of probation after pleading guilty to charges of obstructing a state or local law enforcement investigation into an illegal gambling ring.
Loewke, who could have faced up to five years in prison, admitted to tipping off the ringleader of the gambling ring in 2021, which led to changes in the betting website’s password and history. The case, initially indicating a possible 12-18 months of jail time, was revised to a lower sentence range.
During the sentencing, the judge acknowledged Loewke’s abuse of his position of trust but also recognized his non-violent nature, lack of prior record, and expressions of remorse.
In the courtroom, Loewke received substantial support, evidenced by the presence of about 40 friends, including his lawyer, Schiano, and 50 letters from police, lawyers, family, and friends vouching for his character.
Alongside probation, his sentence includes 100 hours of community service, preferably working with children, a $4,000 fine, and enrollment in a gambling rehabilitation program. This sentence reflects a balance between accountability for the crime and recognition of Loewke’s past service and character.
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