Former Fire Chief Accused of Stealing Over $460K from Department and Cemetery Fund

Mathew White faces charges for allegedly embezzling funds from the South Greensburg Fire Department and the St. Clair Cemetery Association

Apr. 9, 2026 at 8:53pm

An extreme close-up photograph of a padlock against a pitch-black background, lit by a harsh, direct camera flash, conceptually representing the financial crimes and breach of trust at the heart of this story.A recent wave of alleged financial crimes by public officials exposes the need for tighter oversight and accountability measures.South Greensburg Today

The former fire chief of South Greensburg, Pennsylvania, Mathew White, has been accused of stealing over $460,000 from his own fire department and a local cemetery association. White is facing charges for allegedly taking $170,000 from the South Greensburg Fire Department while he was chief, as well as over $290,000 from the St. Clair Cemetery Association, where he served as superintendent.

Why it matters

The allegations against White highlight the importance of financial oversight and accountability within public service organizations like fire departments and community groups. The large sums of money allegedly stolen raise concerns about the potential impact on public safety funding and community resources.

The details

According to Pennsylvania State Troopers, the thefts from the St. Clair Cemetery Association began in 2022, when it was discovered that over $290,000 was missing. White is accused of overpaying himself for salary and commissions while serving as the cemetery's superintendent. He was previously arrested for allegedly stealing $170,000 from the South Greensburg Fire Department during his time as fire chief.

  • The thefts from the St. Clair Cemetery Association began in 2022.
  • White was originally arrested for allegedly stealing $170,000 from the South Greensburg Fire Department.

The players

Mathew White

The former fire chief of South Greensburg, Pennsylvania, who is accused of stealing over $460,000 from the fire department and a local cemetery association.

South Greensburg Fire Department

The fire department that White allegedly stole $170,000 from while serving as its chief.

St. Clair Cemetery Association

The Hempfield Township cemetery association that White is accused of stealing over $290,000 from while serving as its superintendent.

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What’s next

White remains in the Westmoreland County Jail without bail, and authorities are continuing to investigate the allegations against him.

The takeaway

The accusations against the former fire chief underscore the importance of robust financial controls and oversight within public service organizations to prevent misuse of funds intended to serve the community.