COLUMBUS, Ohio — Johnny Baker, 38, the chief of the Coalton Volunteer Fire Department in Jackson County, was sentenced in U.S. District Court today to 12 months in prison for embezzling over $200,000 from fire department funds for personal expenses.
Baker, a Wellston, Ohio, resident, misused his authority over the department’s finances to build up cash through community-funded pull tab sales. The legal gambling initiative, which Baker originally launched as a fundraiser, allowed local businesses to sell pull tabs and send the proceeds to Baker. While the funds initially went toward essential equipment and supplies for the department, Baker later redirected a significant portion for personal luxuries, including cruises, resorts, sporting events, an ATV, firearms, and other high-ticket items.
Baker, who began his volunteer service with the fire department in 2009, has held multiple roles, including secretary/treasurer and assistant fire chief, before being promoted to fire chief in January 2023. In April, he pleaded guilty to one count of mail fraud, admitting to using department funds to order personal items delivered to his home via UPS.
In addition to his prison sentence, Baker is required to pay approximately $226,000 in restitution.