Trial Begins For Former Philly Sportscaster Tollefson After Rejected Plea Deal

By Brad Segall

DOYLESTOWN, Pa. (CBS) - Jury selection is underway in Bucks County Court for former television sportscaster Don Tollefson, who is charged with theft and fraud for selling sports travel packages to individuals and charities, then failing to produce the trips.

There was a lot of intrigue and back room negotiations, but in the end, the 62-year-old Tollefson rejected a plea deal that would have included a two to 20-year sentence, but a state intermediate punishment step down program that could have seen the actual jail time reduced. The program also includes time in a treatment center and a halfway house.

Tollefson is representing himself and after consulting with his stand-by attorney, decided to turn down the plea.

Prosecutors say he swindled over 200 victims out of more than $340,000 by offering trips to events like the Super Bowl and Kentucky Derby.

If convicted, Tollefson faces significant time behind bars.

Opening arguments are expected Tuesday.

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