Kimberly Simchik admitted to misusing department funds for personal expenses over a seven-year period.
(WNY News Now) – DURHAMVILLE, N.Y. — New York State Comptroller Thomas P. DiNapoli, Oneida County District Attorney Todd Carville, and New York State Police Superintendent Steven G. James announced that former Durhamville Fire Department treasurer Kimberly Simchik has pleaded guilty to stealing more than $92,000 from the department.
Simchik, 62, admitted to diverting funds over seven years for personal use, including casino payments, plane tickets, spa visits, and nail salons. She used the department’s debit card and redirected checks intended for the fire department into her personal account.
As part of her plea, Simchik will pay restitution of just over $92,000 and faces a sentence of one to three years in state prison. She entered her guilty plea to grand larceny in the second degree and corrupting the government in the second degree before Judge Michael R. Nolan in Oneida County Court. Sentencing is scheduled for November 21, 2025.
Authorities credited the cooperative investigation that exposed the theft. The case began when a department member attempted to make a deposit and learned the fire department’s bank account had been closed due to a negative balance. The fire department contacted the New York State Police, who partnered with the Comptroller’s Office to conduct a full investigation and forensic analysis.
“Kimberly Simchik diverted fire department resources to bankroll her personal life, betraying the trust of the community she served,” DiNapoli said. “My thanks to Oneida County District Attorney Carville and the New York State Police for their partnership in holding her accountable.”
District Attorney Carville emphasized the impact on local volunteers. “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.” he said.
State Police Superintendent James added that the case sends a clear message: “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.”
Simchik resigned from the Durhamville Fire Department following the discovery of the theft.
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