May 20, 2015
Philadelphia Police Department/Handout
Former Philadelphia Police Department 911 Operator Pendarvis Williams.
Pendarvis Williams, a former 911 operator, turned himself in to authorities Tuesday and will face charges for allegedly stealing $55,000 from a fund designated for Philadelphians actively serving in the U.S. Armed Service's war on terror.
That fund was created by an executive order from former Philadelphia Mayor John Street in 2002. It was launched to provide monthly stipends of $500, among other benefits, to city employees serving in active military duty following the terrorist attacks of September 11, 2001.
Specifically, it was designated only for those individuals serving in military operations that were in support of the Global War on Terror, a campaign launched in response to those attacks.
Williams served in active duty for Operation Enduring Freedom until October 2003, which made him eligible for the stipend. However, according to the Philadelphia District Attorney's office, his mobilization expired after 2003. Williams continued to carry out his duties as a member of The National Guard and was designated to active reserve status.
Despite his subsequent military status not qualifying for the stipend, he allegedly continued to collect monthly checks, totaling $55,000.
Philadelphia DA Seth Williams announced Williams' arrest Wednesday, saying in a statement that his alleged actions were "deplorable" considering his time as both a civil servant and as a soldier who fought in the war on terror.
Williams, who began his training as a Civilian Police Communications Dispatcher with the Philadelphia Police Department in 1999, is officially being charged with Theft by Deception and Theft of Property Lost, Mislaid or Delivered by Mistake. A trial date for Williams has not been announced.
