OCEAN COUNTY, NJ — Salvatore Umek, 46, of Point Pleasant Beach, has pled guilty to theft charges related to misappropriating funds from the Point Pleasant Beach Fire Company Number 2, where he served as treasurer. Ocean County Prosecutor Bradley D. Billhimer confirmed the guilty plea, which was entered before Judge Dina M. Vicari, J.S.C., on June 10.
The Ocean County Prosecutor’s Office Economic Crime Squad and the Point Pleasant Beach Police Department conducted an investigation that uncovered illicit transfers made by Umek between February 2019 and November 2021. He diverted approximately $100,000 from the fire company’s funds to settle personal credit card debts and also moved money directly into his personal bank account for private use.
Umek turned himself in at the Point Pleasant Beach Police Headquarters on July 12, 2023. He was processed and released on summons, awaiting his first court appearance. The state plans to seek a five-year sentence in New Jersey State Prison at Umek’s sentencing scheduled for September 20.
Additionally, restitution amounting to $107,517 will be sought.