WILKES-BARRE, Pa. (AP) - The former manager of a northeastern Pennsylvania township has pleaded guilty to stealing more than $160,000 over an eight-year span.

Seventy-two-year-old Richard Zika of Hanover pleaded guilty Tuesday to third-degree felony theft in an agreement with Luzerne County prosecutors, who dropped other charges including fraud, record-tampering and receiving stolen property.Authorities said Zika endorsed checks to himself from Newport Township's refuse and recycling accounts from 2008 to 2016. Prosecutors said he had agreed to repay the money.Defense attorney Paul Ackourey said his client was dealing with serious illnesses that played a role in his actions.A judge alleged him to remain free pending sentencing June 5. Officials say he will be able to apply for an intermediate punishment program that includes house arrest.