Tilton police officer won't be charged with crime relating to sale of stolen gift card

TILTON — The Grafton County Attorney confirmed yesterday that no criminal indictments will be sought against Tilton Police Officer Mathew Dawson or his relative Theodore Dawson in a case involving a stolen gift card.

County Attorney Lara Saffo said that "based on the information they have to date, at this time there will be no criminal charges."

Dawson and his relative had been implicated in the use of a Lowe's Home Improvement gift card stolen from a Tilton resident by Richard Miner, who was working as an assistant to a contractor who was remodeling the victim's home.

Miner gave the card to Richard McNeil who sold it to Theodore Dawson for $600.

Both Miner and McNeil have pleaded guilty in the Belknap County Superior Court to their roles in the gift card theft. They have both been ordered to pay $2,000 restitution to the victim.

After Mat Dawson admitted he knew about the card but not that it was stolen, his role in the theft and use was investigated by the Merrimack County Sheriff's Department. During the investigation he was placed on paid administrative leave. After about six months he returned to active duty but was demoted from detective corporal to patrol officer.

It is not known if Dawson will petition the town for full reinstatement of his rank and back compensation.

Tilton Selectman's Chair Pat Consentino said she was told three days ago about the Grafton County Attorney's decision. She declined to comment further.