ESCANABA, Mich. (WZMQ) – On Monday, the former treasurer of the Ford River Township Volunteer Fire Department pled guilty to felony embezzlement.
Todd Anthony Holland confessed to taking $70,000 of fundraising money from the department for his own use last year. Holland took a plea agreement for a charge of embezzlement of $20,000 or more but less than $50,000.
According to the judge, Holland’s felony charge is punishable by up to 10 years in prison. However, the prosecution will only recommend a few months if Holland pays full restitution by his sentencing date.
Fire Department Chief Brian Nelson says he is satisfied with the plea agreement.
“It took us quite a few years to build up that money through different fundraising events—pancake breakfasts, raffles, donations from the public,” he said. “We still get a township budget every year so we can still get the necessities, so it’s not like we’re in jeopardy of not being able to operate, but the fundraising money gives us the opportunity to purchase additional equipment. We’ve always had the support of the community over the years, and we definitely appreciate that.”
Holland is scheduled to appear in court for his sentencing on April 28. Click here for more information on this story from Holland’s arraignment.
