Fire Chief Pleads Guilty in Copeland Case | Fayetteville Arkansas News

A former firefighter in Springdale, Brian Copeland, is off the hook for a theft charge after prosecutors dropped the case—despite suspicion that he’d stolen between $5K and $25K. The probe began when no one recalled seeing him on duty, but pay stubs showed he was paid $8,865 over four months with blank signatures… except for Chief Chance Wright’s. Wright, 36, admitted guilt to theft and abuse of office, got six years probation and a $10K fine, citing financial woes with his ex-wife. He resigned shortly after authorities confirmed they’re cooperating with the investigation. Listen in comfort:Get a discount on a Soli Pillow: http://solipillow.com/discount/dnn. Advertise on DNN:[email protected] This is an automated, high-level news summary based on public reporting.Report issues to [email protected]. View sources & latest updates:https://sources.thednn.ai/e9ea0f0a4bc71eb4