Complaint sought vs. ex-Nahant FD leader

NAHANT – An application for a criminal complaint has been filed against Nahant’s one-time acting fire chief who allegedly stole union funds.The application filed in Lynn District Court alleges firefighter Kevin Howard embezzled funds from the International Association of Fire Fighters Local 2718 for his personal use.Attorney Neil Rossman, who represents Local 2718, said he filed the application at the request of the union.”The application pending for the criminal complaint alleges (Howard has) taken, stolen, embezzled or misappropriated union funds for his own use,” Rossman said. “A magistrate’s hearing to determine probable cause for a criminal complaint is scheduled for Aug. 11.”Howard, who has been a firefighter for 11 years, was president of the International Association of Fire Fighters Local 2718 until he was appointed acting chief on March 1. Lt. Edward Hyde was then appointed Chief on April 29.After Howard stepped down as union president, allegations he misappropriated union funds surfaced. When the allegations became public knowledge in April, Howard went on sick leave.Nahant Town Administrator Mark Cullinan said Howard is still on sick leave under a doctor’s orders. Cullinan refused to speculate on what affect a criminal case or conviction would have on Howard’s employment with the town.Rossman said the exact amount Howard allegedly took is still being investigated.”At least $7,600 is documented as missing and the books are being audited,” he said. “It is a significant amount of money.”Calls to Attorney Richard Reiling, who is representing Howard, were not immediately returned on Thursday.