Candor, New York (WNY News Now) In a statement, New York State Comptroller Thomas P. DiNapoli and the New York State Police said that former Village of Candor Mayor Eric Halstead has entered a guilty plea to the theft of more than $23,000 in public monies. As mayor from 2012 until his resignation in July 2024, Halstead embezzled money from the village’s bank account for his own use while claiming it was an ATM withdrawal or the mayor’s discretion. While working on the village’s yearly financial reports, an outside consultant found evidence of the thefts, which occurred between February 2017 and May 2023. After the consultant identified questionable transactions, DiNapoli’s office launched an investigation.
Investigation findings showed that Halstead took out a total of $23,519, frequently while his personal bank account was overdrawn or almost empty. Over the course of six years, Halstead only returned $19,302 of the stolen cash, albeit some were paid back on an irregular basis. He has paid back the entire $23,519 amount as part of his plea.
According to DiNapoli, Mr. Halstead took what amounted to interest-free loans from the people who elected him, betraying the hamlet he was tasked with serving. His embezzlement of public funds is reprehensible and erodes public trust in the government. I want to express my gratitude to the New York State Police and District Attorney Martin for working together to see that justice is done in this instance.
“Today’s guilty plea by former Village of Candor Mayor Eric Halstead demonstrates our unwavering commitment to holding accountable those who abuse their public positions for personal gain,” stated New York State Police Superintendent Steven G. James. I am grateful for the efforts of our members, Tioga County District Attorney Kirk Martin, and Comptroller Thomas P. DiNapoli’s team. Public servants have an obligation to behave honorably and openly, and this case is a stark reminder that abuses of authority will not be accepted.
Halstead entered a guilty plea to Grand Larceny in the Third Degree before Judge Adam R. Schumacher in Tioga County Court. His sentencing is scheduled for April 14 and is expected to include a three-year conditional release, 60 days in jail, and a pledge to never seek for public office again.