Former Ottumwa deputy fire chief charged with theft

OTTUMWA, Iowa -- A former Ottumwa deputy fire chief is accused of keeping equipment from the City of Ottumwa and using it for personal gain following his employment.

Court documents state that 44-year-old Cory Benge has been charged with second-degree theft, a Class D Felony.

Court documents filed by the Ottumwa Police Department state that Benge was employed by the City of Ottumwa until May of 2023. During Benge's time with the city, he came into possession of an arson detector tool and cellular hotspot, which were allegedly never returned, according to court filings.

Court filings state that from May of 2023 to May of 2025, Benge allegedly used the items for his own personal gain. During this time, the city paid monthly bills to keep the hotspot in use; over the two years, the estimat