Johnny Baker, 38, of Wellston, Ohio, who served as the chief of a volunteer fire department in Jackson County, has been sentenced to 12 months in prison for embezzling over $200,000 in department funds. The sentencing, which took place Wednesday, follows Baker’s guilty plea to charges of mail fraud, according to a statement from the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the Southern District of Ohio. Baker’s embezzlement scheme involved the misuse of a department credit card for personal expenses spanning several years. Prosecutors detailed that Baker used the funds for personal luxuries such as vacations, sports tickets, firearms, electronics, clothing, and even home utility payments. Initially, Baker directed the funds toward legitimate department needs but later diverted the money for personal gain. Having been involved with the volunteer fire department since 2009, Baker held various positions over the years, including secretary/treasurer and assistant fire chief, before taking on the role of fire chief in January 2023. The misappropriation of funds primarily stemmed from a department fundraiser that Baker himself organized. In addition to serving his prison term, Baker has been ordered to pay approximately $226,000 in restitution to the department. His fraudulent use of department money, which included shipping personal items directly to his residence via UPS, was highlighted in the prosecution’s case, emphasizing the scope and personal nature of his misconduct. Baker's conviction underscores the importance of accountability and trust within public service roles, especially those tasked with community protection and welfare.

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