Buffis indicted for stealing from toy fund

A federal grand jury in Springfield returned an indictment today against Lee Police Chief Joseph Buffis for extortion and three counts of money laundering.

If convicted, Buffis faces a maximum of 20 years in prison on each of the counts followed by five years of supervised release, and $250,000 fine. Buffis will be summoned to appear in court for his initial appearance.

It is alleged that in February 2012 Buffis, 55, of Pittsfield, acting in his official capacity as Lee Police Chief, extorted a $4,000 “donation” from two individuals who were facing prostitution-related charges.

It is further alleged that the “donation” was made payable to the Edward J. Laliberte Toy Fund, a holiday toy fund that Buffis controlled. Buffis deposited the $4,000 check into the Toy Fund’s bank account and quickly withdrew $3,990 which he then deposited into a joint bank account that he operated with his wife.

The diverted money was then used to pay for various personal expenses, according to the indictment. Buffis is alleged to have lied to law enforcement about the disposition of the funds.

“To be entrusted to serve and protect is a great honor and privilege. The alleged actions of Chief Buffis disgrace the many incredible law enforcement stewards who uphold and enforce the law,” said United States Attorney Carmen M. Ortiz. “Actions like these threaten the credibility of our justice system, and we will not stand idly by and allow the trust of our communities to be violated.”

Berkshire District Attorney David F. Capeless said, “The allegations contained in the federal indictment describe a serious breach of the public trust, and my Office will continue to work with United States Attorney Ortiz and her Office to see that justice is done and order restored.”

Mr. Capeless added, “it should be made clear that these accusations are made against one man, Joseph Buffis, not the Lee Police Department or any other members of its force. My Office will continue to work proudly alongside the Lee Police Department to ensure safety and justice in the town of Lee and throughout Berkshire County.”

The case is being prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Steven H. Breslow of Ortiz’s Springfield Branch Office.

The state is still looking for the public’s assistance in this case.

They are asking that those who have donated cash or toys to the Edward J. Lalilberte Toy Fund or for those who have applied to the Edward J. Laliberte Toy Fund, please contact the Federal Bureau of Investigation, Springfield Resident Agency, at (413) 732-0159.

Posted by Kameron Z. Spaulding on August 8, 2013. Filed under Community News,Featured,News. You can follow any responses to this entry through the RSS 2.0. You can leave a response or trackback to this entry