BREAKING: Thomas Mungeer, the former president of the New York State Troopers Police Benevolent Association (NYSTPBA), has pleaded guilty to grand larceny for stealing union funds. The Albany County District Attorney’s Office confirmed this urgent development on Tuesday, following Mungeer’s arrest in October.
Mungeer, who is a retired state trooper from Sullivan County, was accused of misappropriating union funds for personal expenses over a span from March 5, 2018 to October 4, 2022. The total amount stolen exceeds $25,621. He faces up to one year of interim probation and will be required to repay the stolen funds to the union.
If Mungeer adheres to the terms of his probation, he may have the opportunity to withdraw his guilty plea and plead guilty to a lesser charge of petit larceny. However, he will be required to forfeit all police credentials, a significant consequence for a former law enforcement officer.
The NYSTPBA released a statement expressing deep disappointment in Mungeer’s actions, emphasizing that he “stole from the very people he swore to represent.” The association condemned his behavior as a severe violation of his oath to uphold the law. They stated, “This is the worst possible hypocrisy for a member of law enforcement.”
The union has taken steps to ensure that it operates with fairness and transparency following Mungeer’s ouster. They reassured members and the public that they are committed to responsible oversight, focusing on rebuilding trust within the organization.
This developing story highlights the urgent need for accountability within unions representing law enforcement personnel. As this case unfolds, the implications for the NYSTPBA and its members are profound, raising questions about governance and ethics within such organizations.
As the situation continues to develop, all eyes will be on Mungeer’s compliance with probation and the potential for further repercussions. The public and union members alike are demanding greater transparency and accountability in the wake of this scandal.
