CHARLOTTE, N.C. (AP) - The former fire chief of Mint Hill has pleaded guilty to embezzling $225,000.
Jeremy K. Russell pleaded guiltyon Tuesday in U.S. District Court in Charlotte to a single felony count of embezzlement.
According to prosecutors, Russell used his position as chief of the Mint Hill Volunteer Fire Department to steal by creating a sham medical supply company and creating fake invoices. Russell then approved the fake invoices, with the town sending checks for payment to a postal box Russell controlled.
A federal indictment said Russell used the stolen money to fund a lavish lifestyle and a gambling habit.
Russell's embezzlement conviction carries a maximum penalty of 10 years in prison and a $250,000 fine. He has also agreed to pay restitution.