So far, ex-Hopkins star DiLoreto avoids jail for robbery

Last update: August 10, 2009 - 1:45 AM

A 19-year-old college basketball prospect and former Hopkins star accused of robbing a northern Wisconsin bank last summer has reached a plea deal with prosecutors that will, for now, spare him from jail time.

Anthony DiLoreto of Minnetonka pleaded no contest to felony robbery in exchange for a deferred conviction, said his attorney, Eric Nelson. If DiLoreto's record remains free of criminal charges for the next year, the robbery charge will be dismissed. DiLoreto was charged with robbery of a financial institution and possessing a short-barrelled shotgun for his involvement in the robbery of the Bremer Bank in Danbury, Wis., last summer. He was accused of being the getaway driver.

Nelson said prosecutors amended their complaint Friday to charge DiLoreto instead with robbery and possession of burglarious tools, a felony to which he also pleaded guilty. Sentencing for that is in October.

Nelson said the agreement will allow DiLoreto to possibly continue the collegiate basketball career which was derailed by the charge. He had accepted a scholarship to attend Cal Poly-San Luis Obispo.

ABBY SIMONS

Recent West Metro stories

West metro town briefs - August 10, 2009

West metro town briefs - Interfaith Outreach and Community Partners' 2009 Sleep Out fundraiser received donations totaling $1.41 million, up from last year's total of $1.34 million, the Wayzata-based nonprofit says. More