Binghamton Parks Chief Allegedly Stole $108,000

A state audit concludes long-time Binghamton city parks and recreation director John Whalen stole almost $108,000.

Whalen had been employed by the city until last November. He was charged with second-degree grand larceny, a felony, last April.

According to state comptroller Thomas DiNapoli, Whalen pocketed taxpayer funds and allegedly used the money to pay for his mortgage, summer rental, car lease and loans to his sons.

DiNapoli said the "persistent pilfering" could have been avoided. He said it "points out the importance of oversight and control."

The audit conducted by the comptroller's office found $19,550 in payments to Whalen's sons or their student loan companies.

It also discovered $17,900 in payments to Whalen's mortgage company and $10,400 in payments for credit cards and various expenses including gas and flowers.

The full audit may be found here.

The case against Whalen is pending in Broome County court.