Former ambulance CFO charged with stealing over $26,000 for personal use

ST. JOHNSVILLE, N.Y. — The former chief financial officer of the St. Johnsville Volunteer Ambulance Corp., has been charged with grand larceny in the third degree and forgery in the third degree, accused of misusing funds.

Shannon Countryman was arrested following a joint investigation by Thomas DiNapoli’s office and the State Police, accusing Countryman of writing checks to herself from the company's accounts, and claiming them as personal and sick leave accruals to which she was not entitled.

Between April 2023 and October 2023, she is accusing of stealing $26,456.04. Investigators say they also discovered that she forged the signature of the Ambulance Corp.’s board chairman on some checks. The majority of the stolen funds were reportedly used for home renovations, including a new roof and well installation.

State Comptroller Thomas P. DiNapoli, Montgomery County District Attorney Christina Pearson, and New York State Police Superintendent Steven G. James announced the charges in a release.

"Shannon Countryman allegedly abused her position of trust to divert funds meant to protect the health and welfare of her community to fund her personal expenses," said DiNapoli. "Thanks to my partnership with Montgomery County District Attorney Pearson and the New York State Police, she will be held accountable."

Pearson emphasized the importance of accountability, stating, "Individuals who take advantage of their employment position to commit financial crimes will be held responsible for their actions."

James highlighted the misuse of funds, saying, "The alleged actions of Ms. Countryman are a clear-cut example of an individual using their position for their own personal benefit."

Countryman, who served as CFO from 2004 to 2023, was arraigned in St. Johnsville Town Court and is scheduled to return to court on March 26, 2025.