Embezzler gets prison; Wells murder trial dates confirmed

A Carson City woman was sent to prison Monday for stealing from her employer.

Melissa Florence Coen, 33, was given 12 to 36 months in prison on one count of embezzlement. In exchange for a guilty plea, three additional counts were dropped.

According to court records, between December 2001 and June 2003, Coen stole more than $13,000 from Dr. Stuart Stoloff for whom she was an office manager.

Deputy District Attorney Tom Armstrong said Coen took the office's cash deposits.

She has agreed to pay restitution, though denies her guilt, he said.

In other cases before Judge Michael Griffin:

• Trial dates were confirmed for Tyler Cruz, 25, and Fred Bechtold, 21, in the October murder of Adam Wells. Bechtold's trial on charges of accessory to a felony and destroying or concealing evidence will begin May 2. Cruz's trial on principal to open murder, principal to kidnapping, principal to battery and conspiracy to commit kidnapping will begin May 9.

• Kevin Cox, 44, pleaded guilty to attempted theft.

• Jamie Lopez, 18, pleaded not guilty to trafficking, assault with a deadly weapon and possession of false identification. A jury trial was set for June 20.

• Justin Snyder, 27, pleaded guilty to possession of a controlled substance. He faces 12 to 24 months in prison when sentenced May 8.