Former Adams Police Chief Charged With Overtime Fraud

Kevin Scott Kelley, the former police chief of Adams, Massachusetts, has been indicted on three felony charges following allegations that he engaged in a fraud scheme to obtain more than $19,000 in overtime compensation.

A grand jury found probable cause that Kelley fraudulently received $19,123.15 through the submission of reimbursement claims. The funds were tied to a municipal traffic enforcement grant, which was administered by the Office of Grants and Research in conjunction with the Massachusetts Department of Transportation.

Details of the Fraudulent Claims

The alleged misconduct occurred over a period of approximately one year, beginning in or about January 2024 and continuing through at least January 2025. Prosecutors state that Kelley submitted claims for overtime compensation for dates on which he did not meet the requirements for reimbursement.

Kelley submitted and received $19,123.15 in overtime compensation for dates on which he either absent from work or performed duties not consistent with the requirements of the grant program.

Berkshire District Attorney’s Office

The funds were specifically drawn from a grant intended for municipal traffic enforcement, a program overseen by the Massachusetts Department of Transportation and the Office of Grants and Research.

Investigation and Discovery

The scheme was uncovered by members of the Adams Police Department, who identified discrepancies within the reimbursement submissions. After gathering evidence that indicated fraudulent activity, the department requested assistance from external investigators.

The case was subsequently handled by the Berkshire State Police Detective Unit and the Berkshire District Attorney’s Office. Using the materials initially collected by the Adams police, the Berkshire State Police Detective Unit conducted a formal investigation that led to the indictment.

Legal Charges and Potential Penalties

Kelley, 46, was indicted on Tuesday, April 7, 2026. He faces three specific charges under Massachusetts General Law:

• Procurement Fraud in violation of MGL c. 266, s.67A.
• False Claim to Employer in violation of MGL c.268A s. 23(b)(4) and 26.
• Larceny Over $1,200 by Single Scheme in violation of MGL c. 266, s. 30(1).

Each of these three charges carries a maximum sentence of five years in state prison or 2.5 years in the house of correction.

Employment Status and Current Location

Kelley no longer serves as the chief of the Adams Police Department. According to reports from the Berkshire Eagle, Kelley was placed on paid leave on September 8 and had ceased working for the town as of December.

The former chief currently resides in Mauldin, South Carolina. He is scheduled to be arraigned at a future date in Berkshire Superior Court.