Pocono News Section

Former Fire Company Treasurer Back in Court

Former Fire Company Treasurer Back in Court - Tuesday, July 7, 2009 at 5:05PM EST

Reported by: Eric Deabill
Tuesday, Jul 7, 2009 @ 05:05pm EST
HAWLEY, PIKE COUNTY- The former treasurer of the Promised Land Fire Company will face further court action on theft charges. Stuart Ferber was back in a Pike County courtroom Tuesday.

The 44-year-old waived his right to a preliminary hearing. Some of his fellow volunteers came to court this morning to face him. They call the charges a Òbetrayal of trust.Ó

Stuart Ferber raced out of district court in Hawley minutes after giving up his right to a preliminary hearing. Prosecutors say he stole at least $96,000 from the Promised Land Fire Company where he was treasurer.

Mildred Schieber of the department said, ÒI don't know how you could feel what you did for members of the fire company, and then, on the other hand steal, allegedly."

Mildred Schieber comes from a firefighting family. They're fired up over the charges. Gail Schafer of Promised Land said, ÒItÕs just disgraceful. That's what it is. ItÕs a big loss for Greentown and Promised Land."

Schieber added, ÒEven if I said anything to him and asked "why" -- I don't think I could believe him. There's too much betrayal."

According to court papers Ferber used the money for camping trips and trips to Atlantic City. In the meantime his company went without new gear and new vehicles. ÒFor anyone who could stoop so low, to just have extra pleasures, if you will, in their life. ItÕs sad. ItÕs very disheartening," said Schieber.

Right now Ferber is free on his own recognizance. If convicted prosecutors plan to push for jail time. Pike County District Attorney Ray Tonkin said, ÒOur office would regularly recommend jail time for a far less serious theft than the defendant has been charged with here today."

Ferber was caught only after an audit was done on the fire company's books. Members say Ferber had an unauthorized debit card to withdraw directly from the company's account.