Bayville woman accused of stealing $75k while working as paralegal — Photo 61814404 © Jiri Hera | Dreamstime.com

Bayville woman charged with theft after allegedly diverting $75K from law firm client

TOMS RIVER, NJ — A 58-year-old Bayville woman has been charged with theft after prosecutors say she diverted more than $75,000 from a law firm client while working as a paralegal, according to the Ocean County Prosecutor’s Office.

Investigators said Marie Dibella, employed at a Toms River law firm, used her position to access the victim’s personal and financial information. Between January 2023 and August 2024, Dibella allegedly wrote checks to herself, to cash, and to family members using the victim’s funds.

The Ocean County Prosecutor’s Office Economic Crime Squad began investigating in August 2024, uncovering the alleged scheme. On September 26, 2025, Dibella was formally charged with theft by unlawful taking.

Dibella surrendered to Berkeley Township Police Headquarters on September 30. She was then transported to the Ocean County Jail before being released pending future appearances in Ocean County Superior Court.

Prosecutor Bradley D. Billhimer credited the Economic Crime Squad for its work on the case.

The charges are accusations, and Dibella is presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty in a court of law.

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Key Points

Prosecutors say paralegal Marie Dibella diverted over $75,000 from a law firm client
She allegedly wrote checks to herself, cash, and family members between January 2023 and August 2024
Dibella surrendered to police and was released pending court proceedings

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Chris Quigley is a Staff Writer and Community News Correspondent for Shore News Network, where she covers local government, public safety, community affairs, politics, and issues impacting residents throughout New Jersey. Her reporting focuses on delivering timely, accurate, and relevant news that helps readers stay informed about the communities in which they live and work.

As a member of the Shore News Network editorial team, Quigley works closely with public officials, community leaders, first responders, and local organizations to provide factual coverage of breaking news, municipal government, public policy, and events affecting New Jersey residents. Her work highlights both major developments and the local stories that shape communities across the state.

Quigley is committed to responsible journalism, emphasizing accuracy, source verification, and transparency in every story she reports. She strives to present information in a clear and accessible manner, helping readers better understand the issues, decisions, and events that impact their daily lives.

Through her work at Shore News Network, Chris Quigley contributes to the organization's mission of providing trusted local news coverage, accountability reporting, and community-focused journalism throughout New Jersey.

Chris Quigley is a graduate of Stockton State University and began her career at IN Jersey, the online news and media branch of the Asbury Park Press. She also worked at Monmouth Internet, the Ocean Signal Newspaper, and JTOWN Magazine during her career in both content management and operations.

Degrees: Business B.A. - Stockton University

Experience and interests: Criminal Justice, Business, Animal Care, Entertainment, Lottery News, Local News