The former Lomira Fire Chief, Keith Joas, was charged Wednesday with misconduct in public office and theft following his termination in February. According to CBS58, the 40-year-old Campbellsport resident is facing two counts of misconduct and one count of theft. These charges stem from allegations that Joas used taxpayer funds for personal use.
The investigation, which began on February 15 shortly after Joas's firing, was prompted by reports from the Village of Lomira. Dodge County Sheriff's Office detectives and village officials reviewed financial records as part of the investigation, this collaboration resulted in the charges filed against Joas. Despite these developments, as of Wednesday morning, charges had not been official filed in court records, as reported by WiscNews.
odge County Sheriff Dale Schmidt highlighted the seriousness of this betrayal by a public servant, stating that "public employees must be held accountable and held to a higher standard." WISN obtained a statement from the Sheriff's Office that reinforces this viewpoint. Meanwhile, the Sheriff's Office has announced that no further details will be shared as the potential criminal prosecution is still ongoing. Sheriff Schmidt's message is clear: "public service can be very honorable and rewarding when you cross the line and commit crimes in the performance of that duty, there will be consequences."
