Kimberly Simchik, the former treasurer of the Durhamville Fire Department, has pleaded guilty to stealing over $92,000 from the department over seven years, officials announced Tuesday.
Simchik, 62, of Durhamville, was admitted to grand larceny in the second degree and corrupting the government in the second degree in Oneida County Court before Judge Michael R. Nolan. She faces 1 to 3 years in jail at sentencing and has agreed to pay restitution of just over $92,000. Sentencing is scheduled for November 21, 2025.
According to New York State Comptroller Thomas P. DiNapoli, Simchik misused fire department funds for personal expenses, including visits to local casinos, plane tickets, spa treatments, and nail salons. She also diverted checks intended for the department into her personal account.
“Theft of fire department resources is a betrayal of community trust,” DiNapoli said. “My thanks to Oneida County District Attorney Todd Carville and the New York State Police for their partnership in holding her accountable.”
The scheme was uncovered when a fire department member attempted to make a deposit and discovered that the account had been closed due to a negative balance. The department contacted the New York State Police, who worked with the Comptroller’s office to conduct a thorough investigation and forensic analysis. Simchik has since resigned from her position with the fire department.
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