The Chief of the Maple Shade First Aid Squad risks prison time, if convicted of embezzling more than $118,000 from its account in a six-year span.

Joseph J Freed, III (Burlington Co. Prosecutor's Office)
Joseph J Freed, III (Burlington Co. Prosecutor's Office)
loading...

Joseph J. Freed III, 53, of Maple Shade, surrendered Wednesday and has a Superior Court appearance scheduled for July 10, according to the office of Burlington County Prosecutor Scott Coffina.

Freed faces second-degree counts of theft by deception and misapplication of entrusted property. A conviction on either charge would place him at risk for up to 10 years in prison.

Investigators draw the time fram from January 4, 2011, to February 28, 2017. They allege that Freed was the only squad member with authority to access the account, that the withdrawals were mainly thorugh automated teller machines, and that the money covered personal expenses and bills.

The case will be brought to a grand jury for consideration of an indictment. Burlington County Assistant Prosecutor Andrew R. McDonnell leads the state's case. Authorities did not indicate whether Freed retained representation.

Maple Shade Detective Sergeant Scot Walace and County Prosecutor's Office Detective Wayne Comegno led the investigation.

Charges are accusations. Defendants are presumed innocent unless, and until, found guilty in a court of law.

More From Beach Radio