Hambden Fire Dept. Investigates Unauthorized Access to Funds, Emergency $100K Approved

Hambden Fire Department Chief Scott Hildenbrand confirmed an unauthorized individual accessed funds from the Hambden Volunteer Fire Department Inc., triggering a criminal investigation. The incident, discovered July 27 and disclosed Aug. 1, led to emergency $100,000 funding approved by Hambden Township Trustees to maintain operations, with authorities working to secure the department’s finances and determine the full scope of the breach. Hambden Fire Department Chief Scott Hildenbrand confirmed that an unauthorized individual accessed funds from the Hambden Volunteer Fire Department Inc., according to a news release issued Aug. 1. The incident, which came to light July 27, has triggered a criminal investigation and prompted immediate action by local authorities and the department’s leadership. The total amount taken remains unknown, pending the outcome of the ongoing probe. Investigation Underway, Funds Secured Following the discovery of the theft, the Geauga County Prosecutor’s Office was notified immediately. Prosecuting Attorney Jim Flaiz and his team worked swiftly to secure the fire department’s bank accounts and coordinate with its insurance provider to mitigate potential losses. Chief Hildenbrand emphasized that the unauthorized access was not linked to any internal operational failures but rather an act by an individual with access to departmental finances. “This was a breach of trust by someone who had been with the department for many years,” Hildenbrand said in a statement. “We are cooperating fully with law enforcement to determine the full scope of the incident and ensure accountability.” Emergency Funding Approved to Support Operations In response to the financial disruption, Hambden Township Trustees convened an emergency meeting July 30 and unanimously approved a $100,000 advance to cover the fire department’s fourth-quarter payment, which is typically due in October. The funds will be used to maintain essential operations, including staffing, equipment maintenance, and community outreach programs. The township’s fiscal officer confirmed that the advance was drawn from the department’s general reserve, ensuring no impact on other municipal priorities. Chief Hildenbrand assured residents that the incident would not delay the construction of the new fire station, currently in its planning and design phase. “Our commitment to public safety remains unwavering,” he said. “The theft does not affect our ability to serve the community or complete the new station on schedule.” Fiscal Safeguards Strengthened In the wake of the incident, the fire department has implemented additional financial oversight measures, including enhanced audit protocols and restricted access to sensitive accounts. Hildenbrand praised the swift response of the Geauga County Prosecutor’s Office and the township trustees for their support. “Their collaboration has been critical in protecting the department’s resources and ensuring transparency,” he said. While the investigation continues, the fire department has declined to provide further details, citing the need to avoid interfering with law enforcement proceedings. The case is being handled by the Geauga County Prosecutor’s Office, with updates expected as the inquiry progresses. Residents are encouraged to contact the department directly for non-urgent inquiries during this time.