DELAWARE — The former police chief and captain of the Bethany Beach Police Department have pleaded guilty to wire fraud for allegedly stealing overtime funds.
Court documents revealed that Michael Redmon, 58, the former chief, and Darin Cathell, 49, the former captain, allegedly claimed overtime shifts they did not work. Redmon allegedly submitted at least 174 false claims, totaling 760 hours and $81,890 in overtime pay. Cathell allegedly submitted a minimum of 185 fraudulent claims, amounting to 800 hours and $67,970 in stolen funds.
The two men allegedly took the funds over several years, with some of the money originating from federal grant programs. Both Redmon and Cathell have admitted to the theft and face up to 20 years in federal prison.
The stolen funds were part of the police department’s overtime budget, which was intended for shifts worked by officers. The investigation began after discrepancies were found in the department’s payroll records. Redmon and Cathell are scheduled to be sentenced on August 12, 2025. This case highlights the importance of oversight and accountability within law enforcement agencies