Former Durhamville Fire Department Treasurer Admits to Stealing Over $92K for Casinos, Travel, and Luxury Spending
- The NY Pulse
- Sep 25
- 2 min read
Durhamville, N.Y. – For seven years, the person entrusted with managing the finances of the Durhamville Fire Department was secretly draining its funds. Now that betrayal has come to light.
Kimberly Simchik, 62, the department’s former treasurer, pleaded guilty to stealing more than $92,000 from the volunteer fire company, New York State Comptroller Thomas P. DiNapoli, Oneida County District Attorney Todd Carville, and New York State Police Superintendent Steven G. James announced.
Simchik admitted to using the fire department’s debit card to gamble at casinos, purchase plane tickets, and pay for luxuries like spa and nail salon visits. She also deposited checks intended for the department directly into her personal account.
The theft unraveled when a fire department member tried to make a deposit and learned the account had been shut down due to a negative balance. Shocked, the department turned to the State Police and the Comptroller’s Office, which uncovered the years-long scheme through a forensic review.
As part of her plea, Simchik must repay more than $92,000 and faces between one and three years in prison when sentenced on November 21, 2025, in Oneida County Court. She has since resigned from her position.
Officials condemned her actions, emphasizing the betrayal of a community that relies on volunteers for emergency service.
Comptroller DiNapoli: “Kimberly Simchik diverted fire department resources to bankroll her personal life, betraying the trust of the community she served.”
DA Carville: “Stealing from our volunteer service is wholly unacceptable and inexcusable.”
Superintendent James: “This guilty plea exemplifies that public servants who take advantage of their position will be held accountable.”
Simchik pleaded guilty to grand larceny in the second degree and corrupting the government in the second degree before Judge Michael R. Nolan.
DiNapoli urged New Yorkers to report fraud involving taxpayer money by calling the state’s toll-free Fraud Hotline at 1-888-672-4555 or emailing investigations@osc.ny.gov.
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