I would first find an automotive AC shop and ask about converting the system to R134a which all newer cars have. The Freon(R12) that came with your car is harmful to the Ozone layer in the upper atmosphere, but is not toxic otherwise.

A good AC shop can find any leaks easily enough by vacuuming the system. Then they can give you an estimate of the cost to repair and convert the system. I seriously doubt that there is any R12 left in your system and it is probably at zero pressure. 10 years ago it would have cost around $300 to convert the system from R12 to R134a.

Yes, you could remove the compressor, condenser, receiver, and associated lines. Then get the adapter plate for the alternator so your belts would fit. You would also want to cap the lines going through the firewall, because you do not want to go through the labor to remove the evaporator under the dashboard.

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Keeping it running is better than buying new