NY Fire Captain Charged with Forging Union Checks

Longtime Glens Falls firefighter accused of stealing from department union account

Published on Feb. 22, 2026

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A 45-year-old fire captain in Glens Falls, New York has been arrested and charged with forgery and petit larceny after allegedly writing and cashing two checks from the fire department union account for his own personal use. Richard Stafford, who has worked for the Glens Falls Fire Department for 16 years, was serving as the union secretary at the time of the alleged incidents.

Why it matters

This case highlights concerns about financial mismanagement and abuse of power within public sector unions, which are meant to protect the interests of workers but can sometimes be exploited by corrupt officials. It also raises questions about oversight and accountability measures for union finances, especially in public safety organizations where public trust is critical.

The details

According to the New York State Police, Stafford fraudulently wrote and cashed two checks from the Glens Falls Fire Department union account, keeping the money for himself. He has been charged with two counts of forgery in the second degree and one count of petit larceny. Stafford was serving as the union secretary at the time of the alleged incidents.

  • On February 17, 2026, Stafford was arrested by the New York State Police Special Investigations Unit.

The players

Richard Stafford

A 45-year-old fire captain in the Glens Falls Fire Department who has worked for the department for approximately 16 years.

Glens Falls Fire Department

The fire department in Glens Falls, New York where Stafford has worked as a captain for 16 years.

New York State Police Special Investigations Unit

The unit within the New York State Police that arrested Stafford on charges of forgery and petit larceny.

Warren County District Attorney's Office

The office prosecuting the case against Stafford.

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What they’re saying

“We must hold public officials accountable when they abuse their positions of trust.”

— Warren County District Attorney

What’s next

The judge will decide on Stafford's bail status at his next court appearance.

The takeaway

This case underscores the importance of robust financial controls and oversight within public sector unions to prevent abuse and maintain public confidence in these important worker organizations.