Gambling tied to alleged $1.6 million theft by ex-fire official in Ohio

The Geauga County Prosecutor’s Office has confirmed suspicions regarding a significant theft from the Hambden Township Volunteer Fire Department. Fire Chief and Geauga County Sheriff, Scott Hildenbrand, reported his concerns to the Prosecuting Attorney’s Office. As a result, an investigation revealed that the suspect allegedly embezzled around $1.6 million over three and a half years. According to a press release from the Prosecutor’s Office, the funds were diverted through numerous transfers and checks from January 9, 2023, to May 15, 2026, with the defendant writing checks out to himself. The 59-year-old suspect, who previously served as Treasurer and Assistant Chief of the Hambden Township Volunteer Fire Department, reportedly forged signatures on required documents and excluded the losses from financial reports. Prosecutors allege that after stealing the $1.6 million, the suspect used the money to cover gambling losses. They suggest that most, if not all, of the gambling activity occurred at the JACK Thistledown Racino in North Randall, Ohio.

Prosecutors report that the suspect has been cooperative with the investigation. Jim Flaiz, the Prosecuting Attorney, highlighted the crucial role played by the county's sole financial crimes investigator, whose skills and resources were vital in their efforts. Flaiz further noted that a dedicated team of investigators, attorneys, and interns has invested considerable time and effort into this criminal case. While the inquiry continues, he emphasized that no evidence has emerged indicating anyone other than the former assistant fire chief was involved in the theft. A grand jury has indicted Vandevander on charges including aggravated theft of $1.5 million or more, telecommunications fraud, falsification in a theft offense, money laundering, and forgery. It's important to remember that the suspect is presumed innocent until proven guilty in a court of law.