Former Fentress County Rescue Squad captain indicted for forgery, $22K of theft

(The Center Square) – A former Fentress County Rescue Squad captain has been indicted for theft, forgery and fraudulent use of a credit or debit card after an investigation found he allegedly stole nearly $23,000 in department funds.

Mark Crabtree was indicted on accusations that he wrote seven unauthorized checks to himself worth $11,700, signing both his and his former treasurer’s names. Crabtree is also accused of making 47 ATM withdrawals and one over-the-counter worth a combined $9,943 along with making $1,186 in rescue squad debit card purchases for himself from the Jamestown squad.

Crabtree was removed from his position Jan. 27 and an investigation from the Tennessee Comptroller’s office found the details of the alleged theft between December 2022 and December 2023.

Crabtree took over all rescue squad treasurer and financial responsibilities in early 2023 after the former treasurer resigned.

“Rescue squad officers should be sure that financial duties are separated between more than one person,” Tennessee Comptroller Jason Mumpower said. “Crabtree maintained records and was involved in collecting, depositing, and disbursing funds. Additionally, the rescue squad must do a better job of maintaining supporting documentation for purchases and withdrawals, and accounting for fundraisers.”