A former Indiana fire chief who was already facing charges for sexual misconduct with a minor, has been charged with stealing more than $140,000 from the Summitville Fire Department and Van Buren Township.
James “Randy” Sizelove, 57, was charged by the Indiana State Police with theft in excess of $50,000, official misconduct, and conflict of interest by a public official. He was the fire chief for the Summitville Fire Department and the Van Buren Township Fire Department.
The charges reportedly stem from purchase and sale of vehicles and equipment using township and fire department funds. Sizemore allegedly profited from each transaction. The Herald Bulletin quoted his attorney, Zaki Ali, as saying:
- My client is innocent.
- In my opinion, the charges should not have been filed.
- I’m convinced a jury will not find my client guilty.
Sizemore resigned as chief on November 19, 2020, the day he was arrested for the sexual misconduct with a minor charges. The new charges are based upon activities that occurred between December 2, 2016 and November 19, 2020.