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Fire dept. votes to keep chief, 27, despite theft

Chief George Russell has two prior misdemeanor theft convictions dating back to 2007; he refuses to resign from the department

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The Free Press

THORNDIKE, Maine — Thorndike Fire Chief George Russell, 27, was charged in May for allegedly stealing $5,100 from the Thorndike firemen’s account.

A state police investigation led to Russell being charged on May 21 for theft by deception, according to Waldo County Superior Court records. When reached by telephone just prior to publication, Russell said he plans to remain as the town fire chief.

Russell, who has two prior misdemeanor convictions, is scheduled to be back in court with an appointed attorney on August 11.

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