Clairton, PA, Fire Department Treasurer Accused of Spending $37K for Personal Expenses

The treasurer, the only person with access to some fire department accounts, allegedly spent Clairton funds on purchases and making payments.

Susan Nicol

May 28, 2026

Add Us On Google

Over 100 Amazon orders, ATM withdrawals and payments to Home Depot and other places are among transactions paid for with Clairton Volunteer Fire Department funds.

Joseph Massaro, 46, the treasurer, the only person with access to certain accounts, is facing charges including theft by unlawful taking, receiving stolen property, and misappropriation of entrusted property, WTAE reported.

The unathorized purchases cost the company at least $37,000.

Keith Massaro said he was blindsided by his son's arrest.

“He said they’re singling him out. So, well, hey, if you’re the treasurer, you’re responsible for it all. So, that’s what they’re doing,” he told a reporter who showed up at his house.

About the Author

Susan Nicol

News Editor

Susan Nicol is the news editor for Firehouse.com. She is a life member and active with the Brunswick Volunteer Ambulance & Rescue Company, Oxford Fire Company and Brunswick Vol. Fire Co. Susie has been an EMT in Maryland since 1976. Susie is vice-president of the Frederick County Fire/Rescue Museum. She is on the executive committee of Frederick County Volunteer Fire and Rescue Association. She also is part of the Maryland Institute for Emergency Medical Services Systems (MIEMSS) Region II EMS Council. Susie is a board member of the American Trauma Society, Maryland Division. Prior to joining the Firehouse team, she was a staff writer for The Frederick News-Post, covering fire, law enforcement, court and legislative issues.