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Environmental and Public Protection Cabinet
Former seasonal state employee charged with credit card theft, fraud
BARBOURVILLE, Ky. (April 5, 2006) - An internal investigation has resulted in the arrest of a former Kentucky Division of Forestry (KDF) seasonal employee who allegedly used state government credit cards to buy motor fuel for personal use.
Tommy L. Hubbard, of Barbourville, was arrested today by Knox County sheriff’s officers. The arrest followed an investigation by the Office of Inspector General (OIG) of the Environmental and Public Protection Cabinet (EPPC). KDF is an agency of EPPC. KDF Director Leah MacSwords requested the investigation.
Hubbard, who was terminated from KDF on Jan. 31, 2006, allegedly made fraudulent charges totaling $2,323.64 on two cards issued by FleetOne, the fuel provider for Kentucky state government. One of the cards allegedly was removed from a KDF vehicle without authorization.
The agency’s complaint against Hubbard alleges two counts of fraudulent use of a credit card, both Class D felonies, and one count of theft of a credit card, a Class A misdemeanor. The case is currently being handled by the county attorney’s office in Bell County, where KDF has a district office at Pineville.
Hubbard had been an interim employee of KDF since October 2004, working during fire seasons.
"The Fletcher administration remains committed to accountability in state government," EPPC Secretary LaJuana S. Wilcher said. "We will monitor, promptly investigate and seek vigorous prosecution of people who abuse the public trust for personal gain. Stealing from taxpayers will not be tolerated."
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