OTTUMWA, Iowa — Cory Benge, 44, a former deputy fire chief in Ottumwa, is facing felony theft charges for allegedly retaining and using city-owned equipment after his employment ended.
According to court documents from the Ottumwa Police Department, Benge was employed by the City of Ottumwa until May 2023. During his tenure, he obtained an arson detector tool and a cellular hotspot, both of which were reportedly never returned following his departure.
The filings state that from May 2023 through May 2025, Benge is accused of utilizing the equipment for personal benefit. Throughout this period, the city continued paying monthly bills for the hotspot, totaling approximately $2,731.97 over two years.
Authorities issued a warrant for Benge’s arrest, and he was taken into custody on June 5. After posting bond, he was released. No court date has been disclosed in the documents.
