Jefferson County, Co. – Michael Maher (dob 092481), the man accused of impersonating a firefighter at the High Park Fire in Larimer County, is now accused of similar crimes in Jefferson County. During the Lower North Fork Fire in March of this year, a “firefighter” was issued a chainsaw, two Pulaski firefighting tools, a portable radio, a portable fire shelter, goggles, MREs’ (meals ready to eat), and other items. At the conclusion of the fire these items remained unaccounted for. A theft report was taken in April. The value of the missing items is estimated at $2400.
When Maher was arrested at the High Park Fire on June 18th, multiple portable radios were found inside of his vehicle. One of the radios had been reported stolen from the Lower North Fork Fire.
On June 19th Jefferson County investigators searched Maher’s residence and recovered the chainsaw, the Pulaski tools and multiple MRE’s that were issued to him at the Lower North Fork Fire. Also recovered at Maher’s residence were several Nomex pants and shirts, miscellaneous USFS clothing, a USFS qualification card and a red and blue light bar typically used on emergency vehicles.
Maher may face charges for felony theft (CRS 18-4-401), felony criminal impersonation (CRS 18-5-113) and misdemeanor impersonating a public servant (CRS 18-8-113). The investigation is ongoing.
