Former Quincy Official Pleads Guilty to Embezzling City Funds

Thomas Clasby Jr. admitted to using taxpayer money for personal expenses like steak tips, studio recordings, and a framed self-portrait.

Published on Mar. 10, 2026

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Thomas Clasby Jr., the former director of Quincy's Department of Elder Services, pleaded guilty to a scheme that drained thousands of dollars from the city over several years. Clasby admitted to using municipal funds to cover personal expenses, including purchasing a snowblower for his own use, paying a music studio to record songs for his wife, and buying a used car that he titled in his own name and gave to a friend.

Why it matters

This case highlights the importance of financial oversight and accountability in local government. Clasby's actions eroded public trust and diverted resources away from the essential services provided by the Department of Elder Services. The guilty plea sends a strong message that misuse of taxpayer funds will not be tolerated.

The details

According to federal prosecutors, Clasby began abusing the city's purchasing process in 2019, using municipal funds to cover personal expenses and generate cash for himself. He authorized the city to pay for a snowblower for his personal use, as well as over $5,900 for studio time to record songs for his wife and others. Clasby also arranged for the city to pay $4,800 for a used Toyota Prius that he titled in his own name and gave to a friend, falsely claiming it was for an Elder Services van. Other purchases included a framed self-portrait for his wife and over $2,200 for 153 pounds of bourbon steak tips.

  • Clasby served as director of Quincy's Department of Elder Services from 1999 to April 2024.
  • The embezzlement scheme began in 2019 and continued until Clasby was fired by Mayor Thomas Koch in April 2024.
  • Clasby pleaded guilty to the charges in federal court on March 10, 2026.
  • Clasby's sentencing is scheduled for June 17, 2026.

The players

Thomas Clasby Jr.

The former director of Quincy's Department of Elder Services who pleaded guilty to embezzling city funds for personal expenses.

Mayor Thomas Koch

The mayor of Quincy who fired Clasby in 2024 due to 'financial irregularities' and an ongoing police investigation.

Leah Foley

The Massachusetts U.S. Attorney who announced Clasby's guilty plea.

Patti Saris

The U.S. Senior District Court Judge who scheduled Clasby's sentencing for June 17, 2026.

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What they’re saying

“This case highlights the importance of financial oversight and accountability in local government. Clasby's actions eroded public trust and diverted resources away from the essential services provided by the Department of Elder Services.”

— Leah Foley, Massachusetts U.S. Attorney

What’s next

The judge in the case will decide on Clasby's sentence at the hearing scheduled for June 17, 2026.

The takeaway

This case underscores the need for robust financial controls and transparency in municipal governments to prevent the misuse of taxpayer funds. It serves as a cautionary tale about the consequences of abusing the public's trust.