A former fire chief, Nathan Trauernicht, is now at the center of a legal battle. Accused of misusing public funds, he was indicted by a Yolo County Grand Jury on December 5. Another former UC Davis Fire Department employee, Meagan McFadden, has also been charged with the same offense. UC Davis takes these allegations seriously and is cooperating fully with the Yolo County District Attorney's Office. The university is constantly reviewing and updating its oversight practices to ensure proper use of resources and accountability among employees. Trauernicht joined the fire department in April 2008 and served as chief for nearly 13 years before resigning on October 1, 2024. McFadden worked as an executive assistant from November 2019 to January 30, 2024. Trauernicht was arraigned on Monday and is currently out of police custody on his own recognizance. Details regarding how the money was misused and the exact amount have not been disclosed. Additionally, UC Davis is conducting a comprehensive, third-party review of its fire department operations. Trauernicht is scheduled to appear in court for a trial-setting conference on January 21, and McFadden is also set for arraignment on the same date. Stay updated with more California news by visiting our website, downloading our app, or subscribing to our morning newsletter.
Uncovering the Alleged Misuse of Public Funds by Fire Department Personnel
Trauernicht's Role and Resignation
Nathan Trauernicht dedicated over a decade to the UC Davis Fire Department. Joining in April 2008, he rose to the position of chief and held it for nearly 13 years. His resignation on October 1, 2024, came as a surprise in the wake of the felony charge. His tenure as chief was marked by various responsibilities and decisions that are now under scrutiny. The trust placed in him by the community and the university was betrayed by these alleged actions.During his time at the helm, he likely had a significant impact on the department's operations and the handling of public funds. His leadership style and decisions may have played a role in the circumstances that led to this legal predicament. The details of his resignation and the events leading up to it are crucial in understanding the full scope of the situation.McFadden's Involvement and Position
Meagan McFadden, another former UC Davis Fire Department employee, was also charged with misappropriating public money. Working as an executive assistant from November 2019 to January 30, 2024, she held a position with access to financial resources. Her role within the department raises questions about the internal controls and oversight mechanisms in place.As an executive assistant, she may have had the opportunity to handle financial transactions or have knowledge of the department's financial operations. The fact that she was charged along with Trauernicht indicates a potential systemic issue within the fire department. Investigating her actions and her relationship with Trauernicht is essential in determining the extent of the misappropriation and the parties involved.Legal Proceedings and University's Response
Trauernicht was arraigned on Monday and is out on his own recognizance. This indicates that the legal process has begun, and he is awaiting further court proceedings. The lack of detailed information about how the money was misused and the amount only adds to the mystery and the need for a thorough investigation.UC Davis's response to these allegations is commendable. By fully cooperating with the Yolo County District Attorney's Office and conducting a comprehensive third-party review of its fire department operations, the university is taking steps to address the issue and prevent similar incidents in the future. This shows their commitment to transparency and accountability in the management of public funds.The upcoming trial-setting conference on January 21 for Trauernicht and McFadden's arraignment on the same date will be crucial milestones in this legal saga. The outcome of these proceedings will have a significant impact on the reputation of the fire department and the university. It will also set a precedent for similar cases in the future and serve as a lesson for other organizations in handling public funds. READ MORE