N.Y. Fire District Commissioner Accused of Stealing $240K

The former head of the Hamlet of Wallkill fire district accused of stealing about $240,000 from the district says he’ll pay it back. He’s reportedly ready to accept a plea agreement to theft charge.

According to the publication Times Herald Record online, Michael Denardo, 38, who was once chairman of the Wallkill Fire District’s Board of Commissioners, allegedly submitted phony invoices, forged a fellow commissioner's signature and cashed a dozen checks.

The news report indicates that Denardo’s next hearing is scheduled for Sept. 15 before and Ulster County judge, but it is not clear when the suspect will accept a plea or when any sentencing might occur.

Denardo, who was demoted from the chairmanship to commissioner has since left the board.

An investigation was launched after a whistleblower tipped off authorities more than a year ago, according to reports.

Residents are wondering how no one noticed the missing money. The scam allegedly spanned from 2010 to 2013. The fire district has an annual budget of more than $500,000 and is required to submit audits with the state and the Town of Shawangunk, but there are no reports on file from 2010 through 2014.

According to the Times Herald Record report, the state’s Comptroller’s office did receive updates on the district’s fund balance from 2010 to 2013 which showed significant reductions, including a loss of $237,414, or nearly 30 percent from 2009 to 2010.