Jeffrey M. Kessenich, former fire chief of Plainfield, has been charged with multiple theft offenses after allegedly stealing more than $112,000 from village funds.
The Wisconsin Department of Justice Division of Criminal Investigation said Kessenich faces two felony counts of theft in a business setting and one misdemeanor theft charge tied to the alleged misappropriation of $112,157.
Investigators say Kessenich used village funds for personal purchases, issued unauthorized reimbursements to himself, and transferred money between Plainfield Fire Department accounts to conceal the activity. The alleged scheme took place between December 2023 and September 2025.
The investigation began after concerns were raised by the Village of Plainfield and the Plainfield Police Department.
Kessenich was arrested and booked into the Waushara County Jail. He now faces serious charges as the case moves forward.
