NORTHAMPTON — A former fraternity treasurer at the University of Massachusetts Amherst convicted in 2017 of embezzling more than $130,000 is asking that his monthly $100 restitution payment be reduced.
Christopher Estes, 55, pleaded guilty to embezzling from the Alpha Tau Gamma fraternity, which is located at 118 Sunset Ave. in Amherst. He was sentenced two years in jail, which his attorney argued at the time would hinder his ability to repay the money.
The sentence Estes was handed specified that he spend one year at the Hampshire Jail and House of Correction, with the second year of his sentence being suspended for five years while he’s on probation.
Estes has since been released from jail.
Korrina Burnham, Estes attorney, said in Hampshire Superior Court Monday that Estes’ lease on his apartment was soon going to be up, and that he’d be moving to a residence where his rent will be higher. As such, she requested a hearing to examine lowering Estes’ monthly restitution payment.
She also noted that her client is current on his restitution payments.
Assistant District Attorney Steven Gagne requested time to able to see documentation of Estes’ change in living situation.
The hearing will take place Wednesday, Aug. 28 at 2 p.m. in Superior Court.
Bera Dunau can be reached at bdunau@gazettenet.com.