Wissmann, Arne (Wise County Jail)
Texas’s New Fairview—The New Fairview fire chief was taken into custody on suspicion of embezzling thousands from the volunteer fire department in the city of Wise County.
The charges against Arne Wissmann range from $150,000 to $300,000 for property theft.
This past Wednesday, he was arrested and taken to the Wise County jail before being released on bond.
Theft Investigation
We know:
An arrest warrant affidavit states that in October, the former fire chief of New Fairview Fire Rescue and a number of the nonprofit’s members grew suspicious of Wissmann and called the Wise County District Attorney’s Office.
The former fire chief informed investigators that copies of the company’s bank statements were still being sent to him. He discovered many payments sent to a “shell company” owned by Wissmann there.
Investigators were also informed by NFFR members that Wissmann had not been abiding by the department’s bylaws, which called for a treasurer to supervise the department’s funds and major purchases. They claimed that, particularly following fundraisers, he “was visibly nervous” when questioned about financial irregularities.
Highlighted
Pantego deputy fire chief admits to driving drunk in city vehicle, arrest video shows
Prior to FOX 4’s open records request, neither the deputy fire chief’s arrest nor this video were made public. He was put on leave following the arrest and eventually retired.
Investigators examined the company’s bank and credit card statements, as well as Wissmann’s business records and many personal bank accounts. He allegedly transferred funds from NFFR’s accounts to his business and ultimately to his personal accounts, according to their current suspicions.
Wissmann is charged with stealing $156,415.85 in total.
According to the complaint, he acknowledged to investigators that he had manipulated the department’s accounting software to prevent payments to his company from being displayed.
According to the paper, “Wissmann seemed sorry and agreed to assist law enforcement.”
What is unknown to us:
Other than stating personal expenses, the arrest warrant affidavit makes no indication of Wissmann’s use of the funds.
Community Reaction
Reasons to be concerned:
Following Wissmann’s arrest, New Fairview municipal authorities issued a statement expressing their disappointment at the news.
Although the city and NFFR have a fire protection agreement, officials stated that the department is run by its members and is not connected to the city.
“To the city s knowledge, no city funds are involved in this alleged theft,” the municipality stated.
The safety of the residents shouldn’t be a concern.
“After meeting with NFFR leadership, the city administrator received assurances that fire protection services for New Fairview businesses and people would continue uninterrupted. As the NFFR leadership reorganizes and moves forward, the City will keep collaborating with them,” the city stated.
The Source: An arrest warrant affidavit, Wise County jail records, and a news release from the city of New Fairview are the sources of the information in this report.
