DURHAMVILLE, N.Y. — A former treasurer of the Durhamville Fire Department in Oneida County has been arrested for allegedly stealing more than $92,000 from the department over a seven-year period.
Kimberly Simchik, 62, of Durhamville was charged with second-degree grand larceny and second-degree corrupting the government, according to an announcement from New York State Comptroller Thomas P. DiNapoli and the New York State Police.
“Ms. Simchik allegedly used fire department funds for her own entertainment, betraying her community’s trust,” DiNapoli said. “My office makes it a priority to combat fraud and protect public money. I thank the New York State Police for partnering with my office to hold her accountable.”
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According to DiNapoli, Simchik allegedly spent fire department funds on personal items like a movie-channel subscription, plane tickets, and services at a spa and nail salon. She also allegedly used the fire department’s debit card to make payments at local casinos.
The Durhamville Fire Department discovered the theft when another department member attempted to make a deposit and was informed by the bank that the account had been closed due to a negative balance. The fire department reached out to state police, who partnered with DiNapoli’s office to conduct an investigation and forensic analysis.
Simchick, who has since resigned from the fire department, was arraigned before Judge Long Gu in Oneida County central arraignment for the Town of Verona Court and is scheduled to reappear on Nov. 26.
“The arrest of Ms. Simchik sends a clear message that alleged criminal behavior among those entrusted in their position will be thoroughly investigated,” New York State Police Superintendent Steven G. James said. “We will not tolerate any illegal financial acts, and I applaud the work of our members and our partners at the comptroller’s office for holding those individuals who do so accountable.”
