Thomas Tucker, former chief of East Bank FD, arrested

Subject: Thomas Tucker, former chief of East Bank FD, arrested

On Feb. 22, 2022, the former chief of the East Bank Fire Department, Thomas Tucker (43), was arrested for embezzlement.  According to Detective Morgan’s criminal complaint, Tucker is believed to have embezzled funds in excess of $99,000.00 during his service with the department from March 8, 2010 to October 4, 2021.  The investigation began when the East Bank Fire Dept. was notified by the WV Auditor’s Office that an audit would be conducted on their expenses.  Within days of that notice, Tucker resigned.  The audit revealed numerous expenses which weren’t related to the fire department.  For example, engine work for a Dodge Ram truck valued at $990.99 was purchased, but the department doesn’t have a Dodge Ram on the fleet.  However, Tucker owned a Dodge Ram at the time.  There were regular Walmart charges averaging $100.00 per visit attributed to Tucker’s personal use.  Also, a pump for an above ground pool was purchased.  Mr. Tucker had an above ground pool.  A boat battery was purchased on the same the day Tucker had made a Facebook post that he was in need of a battery for his boat.  There were fuel purchases at convenience stores on a regular basis exceeding several thousand dollars. 

Thomas Tucker was arraigned and released on a $10,000.00 personal recognizance bond.

As is always, Tucker is presumed innocent unless and until he is proven guilty.

 

Detective A.C. Pile

Kanawha County Sheriff’s Office

301 Virginia St. E.

Charleston, WV 25301

Office: 304-357-0562

Fax: 304-357-0140

Email: anapile@kcso.us