New developments surface amidst financial situation for Copenhagen Fire Department

LEWIS COUNTY- There is a whirlwind of new developments that have surfaced amidst the ongoing situation with Copenhagen Fire Department.

The latest update revolves round Terrance Williams, 60, who was just formally charged by the New York State Police for grand larceny in the third-degree. Officials said he is accused of stealing over $40,000 worth of brass casings from Fort Drum while employed there as a civilian.

Copenhagen Village Attorney Candace Randall told reporters from WWNY-TV that Williams is the fire department’s Vice President.

He was one of two people who were authorized to sign checks. The other was Nicole Bennett, who pleaded guilty in June to grand larceny in the fourth-degree after stealing thousands of dollars from a local law firm.

As previously reported, a state audit from the Comptroller’s Office in 2020 suggested “inadequate documentation” for Copenhagen Fire Department, including $27,000 worth of payments that were not stolen, but not properly noted.

It’s reported that Randall has requested the fire department time and time again to hand over their 2021 books, but has gained little ground.

Furthermore, reports suggest that three towns, who paid the department for coverage, are cutting their contracts.

Bylaws suggest that until the matter between Williams and Fort Drum is fully resolved, he should be suspended, Randall said.