 Cottingham was arrested for several minor charges throughout his killing spree; the police were not aware of his murders at the time.On October 3, 1969, he was charged and convicted of intoxicated driving in New York City, and sentenced to 10 days in jail & a $50 fine.On August 21, 1972, Cottingham was charged and convicted of shoplifting at Stern’s Department Store in Paramus, New Jersey and was sentenced to pay a $50 fine.