Former Running Mate Charged For Alleged Pizza Prank on Town Supervisor

A former Harrison Democratic Party district leader and former running mate of Supervisor Joan Walsh was arraigned this morning in connection with a prank involving unsolicited pizza ordered to the mayor's home.

Maria Polera faces charges of second-degree harassment and theft of services—both misdemeanors. She was arraigned in front of Judge Ronald Bianchi.

Polera ran on the same ticket as Walsh for receiver of taxes in 2008 and 2010 but lost each time. She had been serving as a district leader for the Harrison Democratic Party, but it is believed that she no longer holds that position according to Village Attorney Robert Paladino.

"You could have knocked me over with a feather when they told me that they had arrested the person and who it was," Paladino said. "I was shocked."

Walsh was out of her office Tuesday morning and unavailable for comment. Paladino said after speaking with the mayor she was just as shocked as he was by the news.

"I've known Maria for years, and she's a very nice lady," he said. "I don't know what motivated her to do this, honest to God."

Polera pleaded not guilty to all charges and quickly left the court room. She was released without bail and is due back in court Aug. 9.

This is the second high-profile issue to make its way through town hall this year. In February six town employees were charged with allegedly . 

"We think there's a magnet on the roof that seems to be attracting some odd occurrences," Paladino said, "but hopefully the good news is this is it, but you never know."

Updates to come as this story develops.