New York DOT Worker Accused of Stealing 10 Tons of Asphalt

Tina L. Barretta allegedly diverted state-owned materials to her private residence.

Published on Feb. 16, 2026

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A 59-year-old woman employed as a maintenance worker for the New York State Department of Transportation has been accused of stealing 10 tons of asphalt millings from her workplace and transporting them to her private residence without authorization. Tina L. Barretta was charged with petit larceny and official misconduct after an investigation by the DOT Investigations Bureau.

Why it matters

The alleged theft of state-owned materials by a public employee raises concerns about accountability and integrity within government agencies. Incidents like this can undermine public trust in institutions meant to serve the community.

The details

According to state police, on October 27, Barretta directed that 20,000 lbs. of asphalt millings be loaded into a DOT truck during work hours. She then had the materials transported to her private residence on Wood Creek Road in Rome, New York, where they were dumped without permission. The stolen asphalt was valued at around $250.

  • On October 27, Barretta allegedly directed the loading of 20,000 lbs. of asphalt millings into a DOT truck during work hours.
  • On February 4, the DOT Investigations Bureau filed a complaint with state police regarding the incident.
  • On February 5, Barretta turned herself in to state troopers in Oneida.
  • Barretta is scheduled to appear in Oneida City Court on February 26.

The players

Tina L. Barretta

A 59-year-old woman employed as a maintenance worker for the New York State Department of Transportation, who has been accused of stealing 10 tons of asphalt millings from her workplace.

New York State Department of Transportation

The state agency that employed Barretta and from which she allegedly stole the asphalt millings.

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What they’re saying

“We must hold all public employees to the highest standards of integrity and accountability.”

— Jack Keller, State Police Spokesperson (silive.com)

What’s next

Barretta is scheduled to appear in Oneida City Court on February 26 to face the charges of petit larceny and official misconduct.

The takeaway

This case highlights the importance of robust oversight and accountability measures within government agencies to prevent the misuse of public resources by employees. It serves as a reminder that public trust must be earned through ethical conduct.