After the Mirror published last week’s article on the Cape Charles embezzlement scandal, Town Manager Rick Keuroglian responded, “I respectfully disagree with that characterization. Since this matter came to light, the Town has taken concrete, documented actions to strengthen oversight and accountability, including:
- Cancelling the previous credit card contract due to insufficient fraud detection safeguards
- Transitioning to a provider with higher security standards
- Requiring the Treasurer to personally audit every receipt and statement for all cardholders
- Releasing payments only after full reconciliation and verification
- Reducing credit card limits
- Updating personnel policies to establish consistent usage standards, clearer accountability, and stronger disciplinary measures
- Continuing annual independent audits (even though not required) and publicly disclosing the results
These steps reflect proactive governance and a commitment to internal controls, not a lack of willingness to act.
I have been transparent with Town Council and the public regarding this matter, and all relevant evidence has been turned over. I have reviewed the internal investigation and remain in regular contact with the State Police State Special Agent and has confirmed the investigation is ongoing, and a Special Prosecutor has been appointed.
As of December 12, 2025, the Special Prosecutor shared the following with me:
“The matter is still an active investigation. Some of the steps have taken longer than I hoped or expected, but it is an active matter being worked. As we roll into the new year, I imagine SA, and I will be in touch with persons who are identified as potential witnesses.”
While I understand the desire for more immediate answers, the length of an investigation should not be confused with inaction or a lack of transparency. Due process and accountability often require time, especially when handled properly.
I appreciate the opportunity to clarify these points and remain available to provide information when it is appropriate and permissible to do so.”
About the Author
Rick should resign already and go back to Colorado or Florida.
The problem here Rick is that this is our money. We have a town government hell bent on lining the pockets of their consultant friends and so you can’t blame the taxpayers for being curious about the lack of prudence exhibited by this town’s government with our MONEY. With regards to your respectful disagreement, thanks for nothing. It is time for the town’s Government to take responsibility for their cavalier behavior with our money.
Rick says:
“this should not be confused with inaction or lack of transparency.”
Au Contraire….
…it is not confused with inaction or lack of transparency.
It is a perfect example of inaction and a complete and utter lack of transparency.
As a CPA for 13 years before going into corporate accounting, I must agree with Rick’s assessment! Even routine audits can take more time than expected. In those rare cases where you uncover suspicious transactions, it can take considerable time to flesh out just how much is involved and exactly who was involved. Getting the state police special investigator involved is a wise decision. Unless you have been personally involved in a fraud case, you have no idea how much time is involved. Rick must be careful not to release information too soon for a variety of good reasons.
Thank you Rick for sharing what you can when you can!
Editor’s Note: Thank you Captain Obvious. All we are asking for is just an update. Is it so hard? Do you have to put the thumbscrews on them just to get a basic “Hey, this is where we are with the TAXPAYER’S MONEY that was stolen.” We were not asking for the dirty details, just a freaking update. Once you’ve lived here long enough, you’ll notice a trend. You would think somebody that “claims” to have been a CPA would be marginally courious, but this is who now occupies the New Cape Charles. Oy vey.