FDNY firefighter Joseph Keene pulled the false alarm, making phony calls to various firehouses. Once firefighters responded to the call, Keene crept into the fire stations and made off with others’ cash, according to a report released by the Department of Investigation (DOI).
The investigation shows that Keene, through a series of thefts, made several false 9-1-1 calls which initiated an FDNY response so that he could enter various firehouses and steal money from firefighters’ personal belongings.
Keene was reportedly interviewed last week and admitted to his crimes to the DOI.
In one incident in early June, a 9-1-1 call was made reporting a gas odor at Jamaica Avenue and Little Neck Parkway. Local Engine 251 responded to the area, but the call was determined unfounded. While the firetruck was out, Keene entered the firehouse and stole roughly $1,200.
During the investigation, video surveillance found an individual who appeared to be Keene exiting a car and entering the firehouse after the Engine Company had left. The car the individual traveled in was one similar to Keene’s.
Keene later admitted it was him in the video.
The investigation reports Keene having stolen over $2,000 from different firehouses throughout Queens County and Richmond County, in Staten Island.
Keene was charged Friday by the District Attorney with falsely reporting an incident, grand larceny and burglary, all felonies, as well as petit larceny. The Richmond County District Attorney will separately charge Keene as appropriate.
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