Jail for theft from Palos Fire Protection District

A woman from Oak Forest, Michelle Sopko, described her actions as a “terrible mistake” after she was caught stealing $352,000 from the Palos Heights Fire Protection District. She had worked part-time as a bookkeeper for the district and pleaded guilty to embezzlement. As part of a plea deal, she received an eight-year prison sentence. During the court hearing, she waved goodbye to her family before being taken into custody.

According to prosecutors, Sopko stole money through 177 separate transactions over a 30-month period between 2009 and 2012. She falsified overtime pay she wasn’t entitled to and even created two “ghost” employees—both of whom were former district workers. Their salaries were diverted directly into her personal account, which she used for everyday expenses, travel, and home improvements.

The thefts started shortly after Sopko convinced the fire chief to let her manage the payroll. As soon as she took on that role, she began stealing, according to Assistant State’s Attorney Mike O’Malley. Despite her and her husband’s combined income remaining around $100,000 annually, their spending skyrocketed after the scheme began. In 2009, they spent just under $90,000, but by 2012, that figure had risen to $211,000.

The couple used the stolen funds for everything from groceries and clothing to extensive travel across the country, including trips to Florida, Maryland, Pennsylvania, South Carolina, Tennessee, and Wisconsin. The fire district also suffered financial consequences, including IRS penalties and having to take out a loan to purchase essential firefighting equipment.

In December 2013, both Michelle and her husband were arrested. While Michelle initially claimed he wasn’t involved, he was later removed from his position as deputy fire chief. He still holds the rank of lieutenant and serves on the park district board in Oak Forest.

The fire district has since filed a lawsuit to recover the stolen money. According to attorney Sean Conway, Sopko admitted to the allegations and is unable to repay the full amount. As a result, the district has agreed to accept partial payments: $60,000 this week, followed by annual installments of $15,000 over the next four years.

O’Malley emphasized that Sopko’s actions were driven by greed and were highly organized. He stated that she fully deserves the time she will serve in prison.

Thanks, Dan