The former treasurer of the Durhamville Fire Department, Kimberly Simchik, has pleaded guilty to stealing more than $92,000 from the department over a period of seven years. The announcement was made by New York State Comptroller Thomas P. DiNapoli, Oneida County District Attorney Todd Carville, and New York State Police Superintendent Steven G. James.
As part of her plea agreement, Simchik will pay restitution of just over $92,000 and faces a sentence of one to three years in jail.
“Kimberly Simchik diverted fire department resources to bankroll her personal life, betraying the trust of the community she served,” said DiNapoli. “My thanks to Oneida County District Attorney Carville and the New York State Police for their partnership in holding her accountable.”
Carville stated, “The Oneida County District Attorney’s Office would like to thank the New York State Police and the New York State Comptroller’s Office for their assistance in bringing the defendant to justice. This reprehensible act has no place in our society. Stealing from our volunteer service, the great men and women who dedicate their time and talent to the Durhamville Fire Department, is wholly unacceptable and inexcusable. I would like to thank my Assistant, Assistant District Attorney Kurt Schultz, for holding Ms. Simchik accountable for her actions.”
James added, “For years this suspect stole funds from the Durhamville Fire Department, using the money for her own enjoyment and personal gain. This guilty plea exemplifies that public servants who take advantage of their position will be held accountable for their actions. The State Police will continue to work with the Comptroller’s Office and Oneida County District Attorney’s Office to end these types of crimes and hold accountable those who mistakenly think they can get away with them.”
According to officials, Simchik used the fire department’s debit card at local casinos and redirected checks intended for the department into her personal account. She also spent department money on plane tickets as well as visits to spas and nail salons.
The misappropriation was discovered when a member tried to deposit funds but learned that the account had been closed due to a negative balance. After this discovery, authorities were contacted; an investigation followed involving both state police and DiNapoli’s office.
Simchik resigned from her role at the fire department following these events. She pleaded guilty before Judge Michael R. Nolan in Oneida County Court to charges including grand larceny in the second degree and corrupting government in the second degree. Sentencing is set for November 21, 2025.
Since taking office in 2007, Comptroller DiNapoli has focused on combating public corruption throughout New York State. He encourages anyone with information about fraud involving taxpayer money to contact his office via a toll-free hotline (1-888-672-4555), email ([email protected]), or mail (Office of the State Comptroller, Division of Investigations, 8th Floor, 110 State St., Albany, NY 12236).
