Washington State Fireman Pleads Guilty To $500K Fraud

Grant G. Gaspard, 51, of Olympia, Washington, pleaded guilty to mail fraud for allegedly embezzling over $500,000 from South King Fire & Rescue where he served as assistant fire chief. Gaspard had responsibility over financial and procurement operations. In his plea, Gaspard admited to setting up a fictitious company to which fraudulent purchase orders were made. Gaspard was also accused of misusing the fire district credit card. He reportedly used the funds to to purchase photo gear, rifle scopes, computers and a high-definition television, among other items. He faces a possible 41 months in prison upon sentencing, which is scheduled for January 30, 2009.

Read the story here and here.

Read the DOJ announcement here.