Former Fire Department Official Accused of Embezzling $1.6 Million
Richard Vandevander, former treasurer and assistant chief of the Hambden Township Fire Department, is accused of embezzling approximately $1.6 million over 3.5 years. The funds were allegedly taken through fraudulent transfers and checks, with nearly half of the stolen money…
Cleveland Akron, OH, August 17, 2026 —
HAMBDEN TOWNSHIP, OH – A former official with the Hambden Township Fire Department is facing accusations of embezzling a significant sum of money, according to investigators. Richard Vandevander, who previously served as the department’s treasurer and assistant chief, is alleged to have stolen approximately $1.6 million over a period of three and a half years.
The alleged embezzlement reportedly occurred through a series of fraudulent transfers and checks. Investigators have indicated that a substantial portion of the stolen funds, nearly half of the total amount, was earmarked for the construction of a new fire station.
Authorities believe that Vandevander utilized the misappropriated funds to cover gambling losses. The investigation currently suggests that no other individuals were involved in the alleged scheme.
The total amount embezzled is stated to be around $1.6 million, with the alleged activity spanning approximately 3.5 years. Further details regarding the specific timeline of the fraudulent activities and the exact dates of discovery were not immediately available.
The Hambden Township Fire Department has not released a statement regarding the accusations. The Geauga County Sheriff’s Office is reportedly leading the investigation.
The contractor’s name was not provided. The fine amount was not provided. The permit status was not provided. The inspection outcomes were not provided. The code violations were not provided. What happened next was not provided.
Story summarized from the original created by Scott Noll on www.news5cleveland.com, see more information here.
