Arne Wissman, the Fire and Rescue Chief for New Fairview, was arrested on January 8, 2025, on a felony theft charge in connection with an alleged theft incident that occurred in September 2024. Wissman is accused of stealing property valued between $150,000 and $300,000, though the details of the charge are still under investigation.
Wissman turned himself in to the Wise County Jail on Wednesday morning, and he was released the same day after posting a $50,000 bond. The City of New Fairview confirmed that Wissman remains in his position as fire chief, but emphasized that no city funds were involved in the alleged theft. New Fairview Fire Rescue, a nonprofit organization, operates independently from the city but has a fire protection agreement with New Fairview.
The City of New Fairview stated that the fire department would continue to provide service to the community, and Wissman’s situation would not impact operations. Additionally, Wissman, who also works with Wise County EMS, is on administrative leave from his role there.