A former fire department treasurer in Oneida County has been sentenced to state prison after stealing more than $92,000 in public funds.
Kimberly Simchik, 62, admitted to using the Durhamville Fire Department’s debit card at area casinos and depositing donation checks into her personal bank account. Investigators say she spent the stolen money on travel, spa treatments, and other personal expenses.
Her scheme unraveled when the department noticed irregularities in its accounts and contacted the New York State Police. A joint investigation uncovered the full extent of the theft, which occurred while Simchik served in a trusted volunteer leadership role.
She pleaded guilty in September and was sentenced this week in Oneida County Court to serve one to three years in state prison. She must also pay $92,000 in restitution.
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