Sheriff’s Office Investigates Embezzlement in Local Fire Department

Muskingum County Sheriff Matt Lutz said the department is investigating a case of embezzlement in a local volunteer fire department.

The Falls Township Fire Department came to the Sheriff’s Office in early February after recognizing the possible theft. Lutz said there is a primary suspect but detectives are still in early stages of the investigation.

Lutz said there have been embezzlement cases on a seemingly regular basis throughout his career as Sheriff and he hopes the public sees those who commit these types of crimes don’t represent the many volunteers.

"The good people in these organizations far outweigh the ones that take advantage and do these types of things,"said Lutz. "So it is kind of a slap in the face because you’re putting yourself in a position of trust."

Lutz said the fire department has been cooperative throughout the investigation and he sees often times cases of theft are due to a lack of audits within the organization.

"You always want to see the good in people, especially with volunteers and so we get so many good people so I don’t want this to be a reflection back on all the good people that we have," said Lutz.

Following the investigation the case will be taken to Prosecutor Mike Haddox for review before charges can be filed.