TROY, NY — A Troy detective is accused of stealing funds from the city’s police union where he used to be president.

A spokesperson for the Troy Police Department said Aaron Collington worked with them for 19 years. He’s now facing administrative action after he allegedly embezzled thousands of dollars from the city’s police union.

“Aaron’s a great police officer; he’s a great friend; he’s a great asset to the community,” Troy PBA Pres. Nicholas Laviano said.

Laviano was shocked to learn Collington may have stolen money. New York State Police said the 48-year old stole $6,200 from a fund he managed.

Collington was the president of the city’s Benevolent Association for about one year until he resigned in September for a personal reason. Laviano then took over the position.

“Whether or not that was related to this that’s something that Aaron himself would have to answer,” Laviano said.

Collington is charged with Grand Larceny in the Third Degree. Police said he was arrested on his own recognizance.

NEWS10 ABC went to Collington’s home for comment but no one answered the door. The spokesperson for the Troy mayor said the mayor does not comment on personnel matters.

In the meantime, Laviano said the union is cooperating with NYSP until Collington appears in court.

“We’re going to support him as best that we can, and we’re going to try to get him through this trying time,” he said.

Laviano said he doesn’t believe Collington’s arrest will impact the union’s tentative contract agreement with the city.

From News10.com