A former fire chief in Overton County, who repaid more than $86,000 in grant money he was accused of misusing, has been indicted by a grand jury.
Investigators with the Tennessee Comptroller of the Treasury (TCOT) determined ex-Rickman Fire Chief David Akers used the funds for vehicles, vacations, college football tickets, travel and hunting gear, according to WSMV.
The Overton County Grand Jury indicted Akers on two counts of theft and one count of violating the Tennessee Personal and Commercial Computer Act.
Akers reportedly submitted false documentation to the state fire marshal’s office showing the equipment had been purchased through grant funds.
TCOT officials also found that Akers failed to deposit more than $1,000 of fundraising money.
“This case illustrates the critical need for financial oversight and proper documentation within volunteer fire departments. Grant funds are provided to enhance public safety – not to be used for personal gain. I’m pleased the department took appropriate steps to report these issues and is now working to correct deficiencies," Tennessee Comptroller Jason Mumpower said.
