YORK — The misdemeanor case against Tom Fortier, the former Ogunquit town manager charged with theft and official oppression, will continue after his attorney and York County prosecutors failed to come to an agreement Thursday on how to resolve the case.
Fortier, 52, is accused of using teenage town workers who played on his baseball team to collect $400 in parking fees from visitors to Ogunquit on July 4, and pocketing the money instead of turning it over to the town. Fortier denies the allegations.
Official oppression involves public officials seeking to benefit themselves or harm others through an unauthorized act purported to be within the scope of their official duties.
He has been on paid administrative leave since he was summonsed on Aug. 4. The case has been a source of intrigue and speculation among residents for months.
Fortier and his attorney, Bruce Merrill, left the York District Courthouse before reporters could seek comment following a conference with York County Assistant District Attorney Josh Saucier.
The judge set a deadline for both sides to file motions in district court by March 23. Jury selection is slated to begin May 15 in Alfred Superior Court if no resolution can be reached.
Fortier’s resignation as town manager was accepted by the town’s select board in February during a raucous public meeting. As part of his severance package, Fortier will continue to collect his $125,000-per-year salary until June, unless he is convicted before then of the misdemeanor charges.
Matt Byrne can be contacted at 791-6303 or at:
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