A Grand Jury investigation has resulted in felony charges against Derek J. Gale, an Upper Southampton Township Police Officer, and Brandon F. Valentino, a former public works employee, for their involvement in a criminal conspiracy to rig bids and steal township vehicles.
The pair allegedly conspired to undervalue decommissioned township vehicles to secure them at reduced prices through the Municibid auction website. This scheme involved two Ford Explorer vehicles formerly used by the Upper Southampton Township Police Department.
Gale, 47, of Morrisville, and Valentino, 27, of Chalfont, face multiple felony charges including bid rigging, theft by deception, criminal conspiracy to commit theft by deception, theft by unlawful taking, and theft by receiving stolen property.
Both were arraigned on Tuesday by Magisterial District Judge Brian M. Marriott and released on unsecured bail.
Currently, Derek Gale is on paid administrative leave from the police department, while Brandon Valentino has been terminated from his public works position.
The investigation highlights the township’s efforts to address corruption and protect public resources.
