UPDATE: In a shocking turn of events, Thomas Mungeer, the former president of the New York State Troopers Police Benevolent Association (NYSTPBA), has pleaded guilty to grand larceny for embezzling union funds. This urgent development was confirmed by the Albany County District Attorney’s Office today.
Mungeer, a retired state trooper from Sullivan County, was arrested in October 2022 after investigations revealed he misappropriated union funds for personal expenses between March 5, 2018, and October 4, 2022. He faces a potential sentence of up to one year of interim probation and is required to repay over $25,621 to the union, according to the DA’s office.
If Mungeer adheres to the terms of his probation, he may have the opportunity to withdraw his plea and plead guilty to a lesser charge of petit larceny. As part of the consequences, he will also forfeit all police credentials, which indicates the serious nature of his offenses.
The NYSTPBA released a statement expressing their deep disappointment in Mungeer’s actions. “Tom Mungeer stole from the very people he swore to represent, violating his oath to uphold the law – the worst possible hypocrisy for a member of law enforcement,” the statement read. The association emphasized the need for accountability and transparency, stating, “Our members deserve a union that works in their best interest.”
This high-profile case underscores a significant breach of trust within law enforcement unions, raising questions about oversight and integrity. The NYSTPBA has committed to ensuring fair practices and responsible management in the wake of this scandal.
As the situation develops, the community and union members are left to grapple with the implications of Mungeer’s actions and the measures being put in place to restore trust within the organization. Authorities will continue to monitor the case as Mungeer begins his probation under the supervision of Sullivan County.
Stay tuned for updates as this story unfolds.
