Former Quincy Official Faces Embezzlement Accusations

A former elder services director stands accused of taking from those he vowed to serve, embroiling Quincy in scandal and betrayal.

At a Glance

Thomas Clasby, former Elder Services Director, faces embezzlement charges.
Allegedly misused funds for personal expenses like steak tips and a Toyota Prius.
Charges extend to mail and wire fraud, and misuse of city funds.
Clasby pleaded not guilty and awaits trial in March.

Allegations Against Thomas Clasby

Thomas Clasby, previously in charge of the Quincy Department of Elder Services in Massachusetts, currently faces allegations of embezzling funds for personal gain. He is said to have used city funds for buying various personal items including a framed self-portrait, over 150 pounds of steak tips, a Toyota Prius, and even music recordings. These are not light allegations, as evidence has reportedly shown cash being exchanged at various places without services rendered.

Clasby allegedly organized over $38,000 in city payments to a consultancy owned by a friend, all for no actual services provided. Documented in the charges are reported instances of cash handoffs at locations such as rest stops and ferry terminals. Additionally, Clasby is accused of stealing cash receipts from Elder Services at the Kennedy Center in Quincy. This case shines a harsh light on the misuse of funds meant to aid seniors in Quincy.

Quincy's former director of elder services has been arrested and faces federal charges for embezzling city funds. According to @DMAnews1, Thomas Clasby used the money to pay for a framed self-portrait, 153 pounds of bourbon steak tips, music studio recording and a Toyota Prius pic.twitter.com/ZBwPdy3Ic6

— Ryan Kath (@RyanNBCBoston) January 8, 2025

Legal Proceedings and Reactions

The list of charges against Clasby is extensive, including embezzlement, mail and wire fraud, and the interstate transportation of stolen property. If convicted, he faces penalties that could reach up to 20 years in prison and fines of $250,000. Clasby’s arrest occurred at his home, and he is expected to appear in federal court shortly. The FBI along with Quincy Police was critical in the investigation leading to his indictment.

“Thomas Clasby’s alleged betrayal of trust is not just a theft from the City of Quincy but an affront to the seniors he was sworn to serve and the taxpayers who funded these programs,” United States Attorney Joshua S. Levy said.

Clasby has pleaded not guilty to all charges and has been instructed to avoid contact with witnesses and to surrender his passport. He is scheduled to return to court in March. This case, referred to as a significant betrayal, highlights the need for strict oversight over public funds intended for vulnerable demographics, such as seniors.

Quincy Mayor Thomas Koch has publicly expressed disappointment but commended the city staff, auditors, and law enforcement for their handling of the situation. The case has accentuated how public trust can be easily broken, revealing the critical need for accountability within government positions.

“As Director of Elder Services, Mr. Clasby was entrusted with protecting vulnerable members of his community. Instead, he allegedly used his position to fund personal indulgences,” Levy said.