Former Lynchburg deputy fire chief charged with embezzling more than $60,000

Campbell resigned from his position in 2016

LYNCHBURG, Va. – Lynchburg's former deputy fire chief faces multiple embezzlement charges.

Jason Campbell faces 11 felony counts of embezzlement and is believed to have embezzled between $60,000 and $70,000.

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In September 2016, Virginia State Police was asked to help in the investigation of the Lynchburg Fire Foundation after discrepancies were found in the organization's finances. The foundation, established in 2001, provides resources for community projects.

On Sept. 21, Lynchburg City Manager Bonnie Svrcek issued a statement about the possible misappropriation of funds from the Lynchburg Fire Foundation.

Svrcek said after Campbell resigned, a review of his city-issued credit card revealed that he used the card inappropriately.

This information was immediately forwarded to the Virginia State Police for further investigation.

"I want to ensure the public that the actions of this former employee are in no way consistent with the values of the Lynchburg Fire Department or of the City of Lynchburg. Maintaining public trust is critically important to the organization and such behavior will not be tolerated.  In addition, a review of all internal control mechanisms has been conducted and measures have been taken to strengthen accountability," said Svrcek in a statement issued Monday. 

Below is a breakdown of the 11 charges Campbell faces:

  • Felony embezzlement by a government official: November 2014 through April 2015
  • Felony embezzlement by a government official: May 2015 through October 2015
  • Felony embezzlement by a government official: November 2015 through April 2016
  • Felony embezzlement by a government official: May 2016 through October 2016
  • Felony embezzlement from The Fire Foundation: Between July 19, 2016, and Sept. 6, 2016
  • Felony embezzlement by a government official: May 4, 2016
  • Felony embezzlement by a government official: May 24, 2016
  • Felony embezzlement by a government official: June 28, 2016
  • Felony embezzlement by a government official: June 29, 2016
  • Felony embezzlement by a government official: July 22, 2016
  • Felony embezzlement by a government official: Sept. 2, 2016