Hambden Fire Department Funds Vanish | Cleveland News

A major financial scandal is rocking Hambden as thousands of dollars vanish from the fire department — a non-profit entity contracted by the township. Chief Scott Hildenbrand, also Geauga County sheriff, called it a “deceitful criminal act,” though he’s withholding details and the exact amount. The township scrambled to cover the gap with $100K, while officials like Chairman Dave Johnson stay silent amid an active investigation. A “longtime employee” is suspected but unnamed, and public records requests are being blocked. The state auditor’s office has now joined the probe, signaling this isn’t just a local issue — and questions about accountability in public safety are mounting. 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/4525bd615ac6e6ba