Head of former Trenton construction company admits stealing $450K

The president of a former Trenton construction company pleaded guilty today to stealing more than $450,000 by cheating its workers compensation carrier, failing to file tax returns and underreporting wages for his business and himself. Herlindo Garcia-Merlos, 49, pleaded guilty to two counts of thefts by deception in Superior Court in Mercer County, the state Attorney General’s Office said in a news release. Sentencing is set for Jan. 23. Under the plea agreement, the state will recommend Garcia-Merlos be sentenced to eight years in state prison. The state is also seeking $451,142 in restitution, the office said.