FORD RIVER TOWNSHIP, Mich. (WZMQ) – On Wednesday, the former treasurer and secretary of the Ford River Township Volunteer Fire Department was arraigned on a felony embezzlement charge.
Todd Anthony Holland is being charged with embezzlement of more than $50,000 but less than $100,000 between January 1, 2019 and July 2, 2024.
Township Fire Chief Brian Nelson believes Holland took approximately $70,000 of fundraising money. Early this summer, the department tried to purchase a large volume water pump to fill its trucks. When the check did not clear, Nelson realized the funds were missing.
In late June and early July, Nelson launched an investigation to find the money. He contacted the Michigan State Police, prompting an official investigation into the department’s financial records that led to Holland’s arraignment.
“Fire department equipment is expensive,” said Nelson. “Over the years, our guys have worked really hard doing special events, fundraisers, pancake breakfasts, raffles to raise money. Obviously, we really appreciate to get that money back because we look forward to that money. At the same time, there should be some penalty and justice taken as far as the crimes that were committed as well.”
According to Ford River Township Treasurer Amanda Wagner, a resolution adopted roughly 40 years ago assigned fire department money to its own bank account, with no oversight by the Township Board. In August, the board formally rescinded that resolution.
“All future moneys generated by the Ford River Township Fire Department’s fundraising efforts would now be under my purview, or the role of the [township] treasurer, in order to be protected by bond insurance,” Wagner explained. “[They would be] managed just like the rest of our funds, reported to the board, reviewed, checking accounts, statements reviewed, et cetera.”
According to Nelson, Ford River Township covered the cost of the large volume water pump. However, there are still costs associated with updating the department’s equipment. Wagner says the Township Board is taking steps to support the fire department moving forward, and she encourages the public to do the same.
“We really appreciate the community embracing the Ford River Township Fire Department,” she said. “This is a very tough time for them, and we hope to really build them up over the next few years and instate some operational processes that protect them.”
Holland’s felony embezzlement charge is punishable by up to 15 years in prison, a $25,000 fine, or three times the amount embezzled. Holland is scheduled to appear in court for a preliminary examination on October 24.
UPDATE ON 10/15/2024: Holland’s case has been bound over to the Delta County Circuit Court. The October 24 preliminary examination is being rescheduled for a later date.
