Former Carlyle Police Chief Charged with Embezzling Over $100K

Pingsterhaus allegedly used government funds to buy WNBA tickets and a diamond engagement ring.

Published on Mar. 4, 2026

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A former police chief in Carlyle, Illinois has been indicted on charges of embezzling over $100,000 from the city and the local fire protection district. Mark A. Pingsterhaus, 52, is accused of using government credit cards and funds to purchase personal items such as WNBA game tickets and a diamond engagement ring.

Why it matters

The case highlights the importance of accountability and transparency in government, especially for those in positions of public trust like a police chief. Allegations of such significant financial misappropriation can undermine public confidence in local law enforcement and raise concerns about oversight and internal controls.

The details

According to the indictment, Pingsterhaus allegedly used a city credit card to buy tickets to a 2024 WNBA game in Washington, D.C. He is also accused of using a fire district credit card to purchase a diamond engagement ring in 2022. The indictment further alleges that Pingsterhaus had a police department employee cash checks from the city's drug education fund, falsely claiming the money would be used for undercover operations, when he actually kept the cash for himself.

  • Pingsterhaus is accused of embezzling funds from at least January 2017 to November 2025 while serving as police chief.
  • Pingsterhaus resigned from the Carlyle Police Department late last year after an FBI investigation.
  • Pingsterhaus had filed to run in the March 17 Republican primary for Clinton County sheriff, but withdrew his name from the ballot in January.

The players

Mark A. Pingsterhaus

A 52-year-old former police chief of Carlyle, Illinois who is accused of embezzling over $100,000 in government funds.

Steven D. Weinhoeft

The U.S. Attorney who announced the charges against Pingsterhaus, stating that when an officer "betrays the community they are sworn to protect, we will take decisive action."

Jason Herzing

The new police chief of Carlyle who replaced Pingsterhaus after his resignation.

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What they’re saying

“We strongly support law enforcement because the overwhelming majority of officers serve with dedication, honor, and courage. But when any officer, especially a chief, betrays the community they are sworn to protect, we will take decisive action.”

— Steven D. Weinhoeft, U.S. Attorney

What’s next

Pingsterhaus is scheduled to appear before a judge on March 16 in the federal courthouse in East St. Louis.

The takeaway

This case underscores the need for robust financial oversight and accountability measures within local government, especially for high-ranking officials like police chiefs who are entrusted with public funds. The allegations against Pingsterhaus raise serious concerns about abuse of power and misuse of taxpayer resources.