An Oswego County Fire Department Chief is under arrest on charges that he misappropriated about $20,000 in department funds.

Following an audit and investigation by the Office of New York State Comptroller Thomas DiNapoli, troopers have arrested 34-year old Joseph M. Smegelsky, Jr. and charged him with felony grand larceny.

Smegelsky was the Chief of the Fire Department in Minetto, a tiny town boasting a population of under two thousand people in Oswego County.

Smegelsky is accused of using department debit and credit cards to buy personal items.

Photo Credit: Kristine Bellino, WIBX / Townsquare Media
Photo Credit: Kristine Bellino, WIBX / Townsquare Media
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State Comptroller Thomas DiNapoli said, "This individual took advantage of his position and used public money intended to protect his community to instead buy himself guns, motorcycle parts, and landscaping tools."

The audit, which - according to DiNapoli's office - is not expected to be completed until the fall, also revealed that Smegelsky allegedly sold some of his own belongings to the Minetto Fire Department which were paid for, but then never used, by the department.

This individual took advantage of his position and used public money intended to protect his community to instead buy himself guns, motorcycle parts, and landscaping tools

Smegelsky was taken into custody by New York State Police and then arraigned before Judge Patricia Kerfien in the town of Volney.  No bail was set but Smegelsky is scheduled to appear in court again on July 10, 2014.

 

 

 

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