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May 30, 2024Pacific Junction, Mo. |  By: Jeremy Werner

Former IA fire chief arrested and charged

handcuffs

PACIFIC JUNCTION, Mo. - In Iowa, a former fire chief has been arrested on charges of stealing from a charity fund meant to support his agency.

The Mills County Sheriff announced the arrest of 67-year-old Ernie Gencarelli Jr. on felony charges, including ongoing criminal conduct, first degree theft, and money laundering.

Gencarelli, who served as Pacific Junction fire chief from 2018 until his resignation in May 2023, came under investigation after a tip from the current fire chief, Steven Bogert.

Bogert noticed unusual charges on the Pacific Junction First Responders Association charity account, prompting an investigation.

Ripperger's investigation uncovered approximately $40,000 in inappropriate charges, including cash withdrawals, personal purchases, and items such as a chest freezer and diapers.

The funds, raised through community donations and events, were allegedly misused for personal expenses. Gencarelli faces up to 45 years in prison if convicted.