A Greene County couple has been charged with allegedly stealing more than $35,000 in pension payments intended for a deceased relative, according to New York State Comptroller Thomas P. DiNapoli, Greene County District Attorney Joseph Stanzione, and State Police Superintendent Stephen G. James.
Kelly Tuomey, 56, and her husband, Stephen B. Tuomey, 60, both of Tannersville, are accused of collecting pension payments after the death of Stephen Tuomey’s father in March 2020. Stephen Tuomey, who recently lost a campaign for Village of Tannersville trustee, currently serves as the village’s fire chief. The elder Tuomey, a retired food service worker with the Office of General Services, had been receiving benefits through the New York State and Local Retirement System (NYSLRS).
The couple allegedly failed to notify the state of his death, allowing payments to continue into a joint checking account he had shared with them. According to investigators, $30,189.80 in electronic payments were deposited, and $5,050.16 in paper checks were cashed between 2020 and 2022.
Mr. Tuomey declined to comment on the arrests when reached Thursday afternoon.
“The defendants allegedly exploited a family member’s death to try to cheat the pension system and enrich themselves,” DiNapoli said. “I will continue to safeguard the state pension system and work with law enforcement to hold those who would defraud it accountable.”
DiNapoli also thanked Stanzione and the State Police for their assistance with the case.
Investigators say Kelly Tuomey forged her father-in-law’s signature on multiple checks, depositing them into the joint account and transferring over $20,000 into personal and shared accounts. The funds were allegedly used to pay credit card bills and other personal expenses.
District Attorney Stanzione said the theft harmed the integrity of the pension system and those who depend on it. “When people wrongfully collect these payments, it is to the detriment of those entitled to the funds,” he said. “We must protect these funds and prosecute those who wrongfully collect them.”
Stanzione said sentencing guidelines for the charges range from restitution and probation to up to 2 to 7 years in state prison. He added that while his office can recommend a sentence, the decision ultimately rests with the judge.
“This couple allegedly defrauded and preyed on the New York State pension system, all to fill their pockets and satisfy their greed,” said Superintendent James. “These arrests should remind those thinking of carrying out these schemes that you will be held accountable.”
Kelly Tuomey faces two counts of grand larceny in the third degree and eight counts of forgery. Stephen Tuomey is charged with one count of grand larceny in the third degree.
The couple were arraigned on April 15 in Catskill Town Court before Judge Richard Jacobs. They were represented by a court-appointed public defender at the hearing, though Stanzione noted their legal representation may change.
The new village board, led by newly elected Mayor Dr. Lee McGunnigle, held its first meeting on April 7. The next scheduled village board meeting is on May 8.
Mr. Tuomey has spent his life saving lives on the mountaintop, and is usually the first on the scene of a fire, car accident, or medical emergency.
The Tuomeys are scheduled to appear in court again on May 1.
Max Oppen is a contributing journalist. Send correspondence to reporting@theoverlooknews.com.
