Former treasurer booked for theft

SMITHVILLE VFD

A former Smithville Volunteer Fire Department treasurer was arrested last week on allegations he stole tens of thousands of dollar s f rom the nonprof it , officials said John Johnson was taken into custody in the Houston area and booked into the Brazoria County Jail on a warrant tied to the case April 16. Authorities allege he stole between $30,000 and $150,000 from the Smithville VFD following an investigation that began in November.

According to officials, a forensic audit of the department was conducted after Smithville police received a report of theft within the VFD. The investigation reviewed financial records and bank accounts before issuing several subpoenas for additional information and an arrest warrant was obtained.

It was revealed the suspect lived in Alvin, where members of the Alvin Police Department arrested Johnson.

Local police said the suspect later confessed to taking money from the Smithville VFD’s fundraiser account.

As of press time, Johnson remains in jail pending a $75,000 bond.

Officials said the investigation is ongoing.