Former Texas fire chief turns himself in on theft charges

Scott Burkett resigned and became center of investigation into unauthorized use of department funds, faces 52 counts of theft

October 19, 2011 06:45 AM

By Alyssa Johnston
The Times Record News

ARCHER CITY, Texas — Scott Burkett, former Archer City volunteer fire chief, turned himself in to authorities about 5 p.m. Tuesday, according to 97th District Attorney Jack Mc-Gaughey.

Burkett has been the center of an investigation into the unauthorized use of department funds since August, and he resigned from his position around the same time.

After the investigation, a grand jury indicted him on 52 counts of theft Oct. 3. Because of the amount of money stolen, the charges are considered a second-degree felony.

McGaughey previously said that it is believed that Burkett took various amounts of money over a period of about a year. Burkett’s punishment could range from two to 20 years in prison and fines up to $10,000.

Fire Department Management