Only one of two former Penn State Bookstore officials charged with alleged thefts of nearly $40,000 will appear for a pre-trial conference today.

John Bischoff, former director of Auxiliary Services, and his attorney will appear today for a pre-trial conference, said Cheryl Spotts, Centre County criminal court administrator.

Bischoff, who oversaw University-wide bookstore operations, is accused of theft of $29,365, according to court records.

William McVicker, former director of the Penn State Bookstore, and his attorney, have opted to come to court Oct. 12, Spotts said, but refused to give a reason.

McVicker is accused of the alleged theft of $8,377, according to court records. Both McVicker and Bischoff resigned from the University in July.

The matter is still being discussed with the district attorney, said Edward Blanarik, McVicker's attorney.

Possible conference outcomes include entering a plea, opting for a trial or the Accelerated Rehabilitative Disposition, Blanarik said.

"It's, in effect, been waived," Blanarik said.

Guilty pleas or ARD requests can still be made on Oct. 12, Spotts said.

ARD programs place people on probation for a year -- the case is suspended for the year and the person must comply with court guidelines.

McVicker was unavailable for comment yesterday.

Spotts said she doubted there would be a jury trial for either man, but refused to say why.

If McVicker is convicted, he could face penalties ranging from jail time to probation, Blanarik said, adding that jury selection is set for mid-October.

Neither Bischoff nor his attorney, Robert Mitinger, could be reached for comment.