A truck driver has been charged for driving a fuel tanker 56,360 pounds over the posted weight limit on Wehr's Mill Bridge.

According to Lehigh County District Attorney Jim Martin, Robert J. Wolkowicz, 48, of 5678 Chestnut Hill Road, Coopersburg, was charged with one count of criminal mischief for intentionally damaging property, a felony of the third-degree as losses are in excess of $5,000, and a summary offense of violating restrictions on use of highways and bridges.

Wolkowicz turned himself in to authorities July 31, and was arraigned at Lehigh County Central Booking by Magisterial District Judge Jake Hammond, South Whitehall.

He was released on $20,000 unsecured bail.

According to an affidavit of probable cause filed by South Whitehall Township police, Officer Jason V. Grozier was conducting motor carrier enforcement at 10:52 a.m. July 25, in the area of Wehr Mill and River roads, South Whitehall Township.

Grozier saw a fuel tanker northbound on Wehr Mill Road cross over Wehr's Mill Covered Bridge with a posted weight restriction of 10 tons, or 20,000 pounds.

As the tanker was crossing the bridge, Grozier heard loud banging and cracking sounds.

The tanker and truck were registered to Lehigh Petroleum Inc.

A bill of lading from Buckeye Energy Services states the truck carried 6,503 pounds of fuel in the tanker.

Grozier determined the total weight of the vehicle and fuel was 76,360 pounds minus the driver, or 56,360 pounds over the posted weight restriction.

The covered bridge was closed for public safety until the condition of the bridge could be determined.

PennDOT engineers say the bridge will remain closed until inspection at a later date.

Wolkowicz faces a fine of $16,200 plus costs.