South Salem Deli Owner Allegedly Stole Papers for Resale

Charles Mattiello, the owner of the has admitted to stealing newspapers from other local delis and newsstands to sell in his own South Salem shop, say Bedford police.

Mattiello, 62, of Katonah, was arrested on April 2 after being caught by a surveillance operation set up by Bedford Police Detective Joseph Communale, said Police Lieutenent Jeffrey Dickan.

"After hearing about multiple cases of local establishments having their newspapers disappear, Detective Communale worked with store owners and viewed security  video to identify Mattiello as a suspect," said Dickan.

Mattiello's white Dodge van was seen in the area early Saturday morning, and police stopped him around 5 a.m. on Route 35. Mattiello had with him $12.75 in stolen newspapers from the Katonah Service Center on Bedford Road, said police.

Mattiello was brought back to police headquarters where he admitted to taking newspapers—copies of the New York Times, the Daily News and Oggi, valued at $155—from the Bedford Hills Deli and Dee's Variety in Bedford Hills. 

Mattiello was charged with three counts of petit larceny and fifth-degree criminal possession of stolen property, A misdemeanors. He was released without bail pending an appearance in Bedford Town Court. 

Michael Gasperino, owner of the Bedford Hills Deli, said he was glad he wouldn't be losing any more papers but he also felt badly that a fellow small business owner turned to stealing to make ends meet.

"It's a sign of the times, for sure," he said. "I'm sure he's a nice guy and was taking a hit like we all are in this recession. We're pinching pennies too."