Former Cedar Grove fire chief misappropriated over $10,000, investigative report finds

CEDAR GROVE, Tenn. — The Tennessee Comptroller’s Office has concluded its investigation into misappropriated funds within the Cedar Grove Volunteer Fire Department.

Michael Browning Jr. was appointed as the Cedar Grove Volunteer Fire Department’s fire chief around April 2017.

Michael Browning Jr. via MOBILE PATROL

According to the report, from January 1, 2022, through April 7, 2025, Browning used the department debit card to misappropriate department funds totaling at least $10,721.61 through unauthorized ATM withdrawals and personal purchases.

The department also incurred overdraft fees totaling $216 due to Browning’s misappropriation.

Browning was terminated from his position as the department’s fire chief on April 24, 2025.

The comptroller’s report also found that a lack of adequate oversight of financial operations and effective internal controls contributed to Browning’s ability to misappropriate funds.

Department officials indicated that they have corrected or intend to correct these deficiencies.

View the full report here.

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