The Michigan State Police (MSP) Calumet Post has completed an investigation into a theft scheme involving a retired Lake Linden Department of Public Works employee.
71-year-old Ronald Schmitt from Lake Linden has been arraigned on charges today. Schmitt, a former employee of the Department of Public Works, is accused of stealing gasoline from the Department of Public Works for his personal use over the past 12 years.
Through the investigation, it was revealed that Schmitt had unlawfully taken gasoline using a key fob meant for fueling Department of Public Works vehicles. Schmitt allegedly had retained the fuel key fob after his retirement and continued using it for personal use. Since he retired in 2012, he is estimated to have stolen over $28,000 of gasoline.
In November of 2024, the MSP opened an investigation into the matter after concerns were raised by the Lake Linden Department of Public Works. In partnership with the Lake Linden Village Police Department, a thorough investigation was completed. Investigative measures included MSP successfully catching Schmitt attempting to fuel his personal truck using the stolen key fob.
Due to statute of limitations restrictions, charges were reflective of activity for the past six years, despite the thefts allegedly having gone on for longer. Schmitt has been arrested and charged in connection with the thefts. Schmitt was arraigned in the 97th District Court in Houghton today on three felony charges.
- Count 1: Using a computer to commit a crime
- Count 2: Larceny greater than $1,000 but less than $20,000
- Count 3: Financial Transaction Device – stealing/retaining without consent
Schmitt was granted a $10,000 personal recognizance bond. He is expected to be back in court on February 3, 2025. He is considered innocent unless proven guilty.
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