Drama at the Town Dump: Two Employees Accused of Pocketing Money

Two long time employees of the Madison-Guilford Transfer Station, Frank Cole and Philip Hunt, were arrested Monday evening on charges of larceny in the second degree. The employes are charged with pocketing money from the operations.

Cole, 56, of 185 Middle Road, Guilford, was a town employee for 17 years and the Foreman at the station. He was released on a $50,000 bond and is scheduled to appear in court on Tuesday, May 7.

Hunt, 41, of 1011 Route 80, Guilford, was a town employee for 15 years, and is currently in custody with bond set at $50,000. He will be arraigned today at GA 23 in New Haven.

"It's like taking that money out of residents' pockets," said Guilford First Selectman Mazza at a press conference Tuesday morning. "We pride ourselves on have good, very good, dedicated employees. It leaves a lump in your throat."

Mazza explained that several months ago town officials were tipped off by a Guilford resident who claimed to have heard from a reliable source that employees were pocketing money. Further investigation led to yesterday's arrests. 

Both Hunt and Cole have been placed on paid administrative leave at the advice of town attorney, Mazza stated.

Currently, Public Works is now supervising operations at the transfer station and the investigations are ongoing. Chief Terribile of the Guilford Police Department stated that it is "too early to tell exactly how much money was taken." He explained an audit of town books and accounts will be included in the investigation.

"It is concerning when someone in the public's trust betrays that trust," said Madison First Selectman Fillmore McPherson. "This shows temptation is everywhere."

The Transfer station employed three individuals, and currently the third employee, who has not been charged or implicated, "has been placed on paid administrative leave on the advice of the town attorney," according to Mazza.

Starting Monday, May 6, no more cash will be accepted at the station. Transactions must be paid for with a credit or debit card, check or coupons that will be available at the town clerks office.