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Ex-treasurer charged with embezzling $1.1M from fire dept.

Albert Melin, 46, wrote over 130 fire department checks to two of his businesses

By FireRescue1 Staff

PATTERSON, N.Y. — A former treasurer faces up to 20 years in prison after pleading guilty to embezzling over $1.1 million from the fire department.

Albert Melin, 46, pleaded guilty to charges of wire fraud and subscribing false tax returns, reported New York Upstate.

Prosecutors allege Melin wrote over 130 fire department checks to two businesses he owned, and used funds to pay for his house mortgage, family vacations and other personal expenses.

“Melin took money that was supposed to be used for fighting fire and other department needs, and instead used it to keep his own private businesses afloat and pay his personal bills,” U.S. Attorney Preet Bharara said.

Melin will forfeit the stolen funds to the federal government. He will be sentenced Feb. 3 , 2017.

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