The West Point Fire Department has issued a statement that they're out hundreds of thousands of dollars after an alleged scam.

According to a post on the West Point Fire Department's Facebook page, the fire department became victim to fraud on its bank accounts back in May as a result of a "complex scam."

As a result, the department has had hundreds of thousands of dollars stolen and is working with local, state and federal agencies to get answers. 

Assistant Fire Chief Phillip Pelley tells 21 News the Columbiana County Sheriff's Office is handling the investigation. Sheriff Brian McLaughlin would not comment on the nature of the scam, if it appears to be internal or if they expect any charges to be filed.

"This will be a long road to recovery from this, but we are working to secure funding, cut costs and create savings all while continuing to provide the same level of service to the community including maintaining our staffing of EMTs and Paramedics Sunday through Friday 6 a.m. to 6 p.m.," the post reads.

During the investigation, the fire department will bring in a temporary acting fire chief who serves at a neighboring department to assist in the rebuilding process.

According to the post, the current chief is on a temporary leave of absence.

Pelley tells 21 News the brought in the acting chief as soon as this issue was brought to their attention. Pelley would not tell us who the temporary chief is or why the current chief is on leave.

We're working to learn more information on the situation. Stay connected online and on air for the latest updates.