Former Jakes Branch Fire Chief James Farris has been sentenced to five years of
probation after admitting to stealing from the department.
The Hazard Herald reports Farris pleaded guilty to theft and abuse of public trust and has already paid back $35,000 in restitution.
A Kentucky State Police investigation last winter showed Ferris and his girlfriend, who was the fire department treasurer, misappropriated department funds for personal use.
But prosecutors say Farris took full responsibility for the crime and the charges against his girlfriend were dropped.