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Woman Accused Of Renting Out Dead Neighbor's House

PITTSBURGH (KDKA) – Mary Mechelli, 54, of McKeesport, was released from custody Friday night after a court appearance in Downtown Pittsburgh.

She's facing charges including theft, forgery and tampering with public records following a year-long investigation by the Allegheny County District Attorney's Office.

Investigators say Mechelli pilfered from the estate of an elderly neighbor who died in 2010.

Mechelli refused to say much after being released. She tried to hide her face and run for cover.

KDKA's Ralph Iannotti Reports:

KDKA's Ralph Iannotti: "Why don't you want to show your face?"

Mechelli: "Cause it's untrue."

Iannotti: "Well, why? Explain why."

Mechelli: "Because it's false accusations."

She did say, however, that the accusations against her were false, but did not elaborate.

Mechelli is due back in court on Aug. 13th. The District Attorney says the investigation into the case is ongoing.

Among other things, Mechelli is charged with taking nearly $10,000 in rent money from a tenant, who was renting a house that was owned by Margaret Dorn, who died in 2010.

"She has the devil inside her. I believe she has the devil in her," Ray Conway, the tenant, said of Mechelli. "I don't ever want to see or hear from her, and I hope she rots in jail."

It was Conway who tipped authorities off that something wasn't right.

Both women lived in the 1300-block of Scott Street in McKeesport.

KDKA's Paul Martino Reports:

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