HILLTOWNS — A custodial worker for the Berne-Knox-Westerlo School District has been arrested for stealing more than $2,500 worth of school property, including a television, three laptops, and a stereo system. 

Christopher Lewis, 53, of Coeymans, is charged with fourth-degree grand larceny, to be heard in Berne Town Court, and with fourth-degree criminal possession of stolen property, to be heard in Coeymans Town Court, according to a press release from the Albany County Sheriff's office. Both are Class E felonies.

“Our agency was contacted by the school district and a larceny complaint was generated for stolen items,” Undersheriff William Rice told The Enterprise of the events leading up to Lewis’s arrest. “Our investigators conducted an investigation and reviewed video surveillance.”

In response to Enterprise questions about the incident, and how theft might be prevented in the future, BKW Superintendent Timothy Mundell wrote in an email, “Thank you for understanding this is a personnel matter and I have no comment for any of the questions you have.”

In addition to the television, laptops, and stereo system, Lewis is alleged to have stolen a heater, several soap dispensers, a paper-towel dispenser, a vacuum, two lamps, four power drills, a saw, a battery pack, and a framed picture of actor Marilyn Monroe. 

Lewis could not be reached for comment.

He will appear before the town courts of Berne and Coeymans on dates to be determined.