Prosecutors close book on library theft case

BANGOR – A man accused of stealing nearly $27,000 worth of rare books and maps from the Bangor Public Library pleaded guilty Friday in Penobscot County Superior Court.

Raymond Nelson, 20, entered the plea to one count of felony theft in connection with the 2001 thefts, in which he took items including valuable maps, prints and books from the library’s special collection.

Penobscot County Deputy District Attorney Michael Roberts said Friday that prosecutors would recommend a sentence of four years in prison with all but nine months suspended.

The recommendation also will require Nelson to serve four years of probation upon his release. He also must pay $12,000 in restitution, according to the terms of the state’s recommendation.

Nelson is expected to be sentenced later this month, Roberts said.

Authorities were able to recover many of the stolen items, which Nelson reportedly tried to sell to area booksellers and antiquarians.

The felony theft charge carries with it a maximum 10 years in prison.

Nelson, a transient who reportedly has family ties to southern Maine, has been jailed for nearly six months since his arrest. He remained at Penobscot County Jail Friday evening on $30,000 surety bail or $3,000 cash.