Ex-Quincy Official Accused of Misusing Public Funds

Ex-Quincy Official Accused of Misusing Public Funds

Former Massachusetts official Thomas Clasby faces serious charges of embezzlement and fraud, accused of misusing public funds meant for elderly services in Quincy.

At a Glance

  • Thomas Clasby, ex-director of Quincy’s Department of Elder Services, has been indicted on embezzlement and fraud charges.
  • Allegations include misuse of city funds for personal expenses over five years.
  • Clasby pleaded not guilty and was released on personal recognizance.
  • The charges carry potential sentences of up to 20 years in prison and $250,000 fines.

Breach of Public Trust

Thomas Clasby, the former director of elder services for Quincy, Massachusetts, is facing federal charges for allegedly embezzling funds meant to support the city’s elderly population. Clasby, 60, who served in his position from 1999 to April 2024, is accused of using city funds as a personal slush fund over a five-year period starting in 2019.

The indictment alleges that Clasby engaged in embezzlement, mail and wire fraud, and transporting stolen property across state lines. These serious allegations have shocked the community and raised questions about oversight in public offices.

Misuse of Funds

Clasby allegedly used city funds for a variety of personal expenses. These included purchasing 153 pounds of steak tips, booking a music studio, buying a Toyota Prius, and even commissioning a self-portrait. The misuse of funds extended to awarding a fraudulent $38,000 contract to a consultant friend, who reportedly cashed city checks and delivered the money to Clasby at various locations.

“Thomas Clasby’s alleged betrayal of trust is not just a theft from the City of Quincy but an affront to the seniors he was sworn to serve and the taxpayers who funded these programs,” said U.S. Attorney for Massachusetts Joshua Levy. He added, “Let this indictment serve as a reminder: public officials who exploit their positions for personal gain will be found out and held accountable for their crimes.”

The scale of the alleged embezzlement is significant, with Clasby accused of stealing most of the cash receipts from the department starting in June 2021. This breach of trust has not only impacted the elderly community that the department was meant to serve but has also eroded public confidence in local government institutions.

Legal Proceedings and Potential Consequences

Clasby pleaded not guilty in federal court and was released on personal recognizance. However, the charges he faces carry severe potential penalties. The embezzlement and interstate transportation of stolen property charges each carry a sentence of up to 10 years in prison and a $250,000 fine. The mail and wire fraud charges are even more serious, with potential sentences of up to 20 years in prison and a $250,000 fine.

The case has drawn attention to the need for stricter oversight and accountability measures in public offices, especially those dealing with vulnerable populations. The collaboration between the FBI and local law enforcement in investigating and prosecuting this case demonstrates a commitment to rooting out corruption at all levels of government.

Community Impact and Response

The allegations against Clasby have deeply affected the Quincy community, particularly the elderly population that the Department of Elder Services was meant to support. Mayor Thomas Koch expressed his dismay at the situation but also his confidence in the city’s response.

“While I remain deeply saddened personally by what transpired, the way this matter was handled by all involved — from our staff, our outside auditors, and law enforcement – showed unequivocally that this kind of breach of the public’s trust will never be tolerated. The Kennedy Center is a special place for our seniors, and it will remain so,” stated Mayor Koch.

As the legal process unfolds, the city of Quincy faces the challenge of rebuilding trust in its elder services department and ensuring that safeguards are in place to prevent similar incidents in the future. The case serves as a stark reminder of the importance of integrity in public service and the need for vigilance in protecting the interests of vulnerable community members.

Sources

  1. Ex-Quincy official used city money as ‘personal slush fund,’ FBI says
  2. Former Quincy Official Indicted for Embezzling City Funds
  3. Mass. official used taxpayer money meant for seniors on music studio recordings, 153 pounds of bourbon steak tips, framed portrait: feds