ST. CLAIRSVILLE – David Smith, former mayor of Bridgeport, received the maximum sentence of three years in the penitentiary for theft in office and other crimes when he appeared Monday afternoon before Belmont County Common Pleas Judge John Vavra.

Smith, 49, of 205 Jacquette St., Bridgeport, had served as mayor since 2016. He was accused of stealing more than $24,000 from the village during that time by removing cash payments and corresponding traffic tickets and using the money for his own personal gain.

Smith stepped down in late July after pleading guilty to third-degree felony theft in office and misdemeanor conflict of interest.

A further restitution hearing was set for Aug. 31. Smith’s attorney informed Vavra Smith intends to appeal the sentence.