HARRISBURG, PA — Attorney General Michelle Henry announced the arrest on Thursday of Joseph Osinski, a McKeesport detective and former financial officer of the Fraternal Order of Police (FOP) Lodge 91. Osinski, 55, is accused of misappropriating over $1 million from his union lodge’s funds, raising serious concerns within the local law enforcement community.
Osinski faces multiple charges, including theft by unlawful taking, theft by deception, access device fraud, misapplication of entrusted property, dealing in the proceeds of illegal activity, and receiving stolen property. These charges stem from allegations that he exploited his trusted position to transfer funds and use the lodge’s bank accounts and credit cards for personal gain. His bail is set at $50,000 unsecured, and a preliminary hearing is scheduled for October 9.
Attorney General Henry expressed the gravity of the situation, stating, “This defendant was not only a trusted member of law enforcement in his community, he was trusted by his peers and colleagues to handle their dues money in support of the FOP mission. His abuse of that trust left his fellow officers struggling to keep their lodge afloat and damaged the public’s trust in those working to protect them. These charges serve as a reminder that we will seek justice from those who harm our communities, regardless of job or position.”
Osinski served as the financial secretary of FOP Lodge 91 from 2020 until April 2024. He was one of three individuals with access to the lodge’s bank account, assisting with treasurer duties. The allegations suggest a breach of fiduciary responsibility, dating back several years.
An investigation by the Office of Attorney General revealed that Osinski allegedly misappropriated $1,041,680 from the lodge between March 2019 and April 2024. It is alleged that checks intended for the lodge were deposited into accounts he created under the lodge’s name at a different financial institution, where he was the sole owner and authorized user. Additionally, Osinski is accused of using the lodge’s credit card and official bank accounts for personal purchases without the knowledge of fellow lodge members, amounting to over $24,000. In total, the alleged theft is said to be $1,067,057.82.
The investigation began in January 2024, following an anonymous letter sent to FOP board members questioning the lodge’s financial status. Prior to this, ranking members noticed unusual charges on the lodge’s credit card, including purchases of alcohol and hotel stays, which did not align with the lodge’s interests.
Among the misappropriated funds were donations intended for a memorial fund for an officer who died in the line of duty. Instead of depositing these checks into the memorial fund, Osinski allegedly redirected the money into his accounts.
Special Agent Jessica Von Voight conducted the investigation, and Senior Deputy Attorney General Alex Cashman will prosecute the case. It is important to note that all charges are allegations. Osinski is presumed innocent until proven guilty in a court of law.
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