We now know how much money the West Point Fire Department lost in a scam 21 News first reported last June.

According to a post on the fire department’s Facebook page, the organization lost more than $320,000 after its bookkeeper fell victim to an elaborate international scam.

The scam began in June when the bookkeeper received a fake email purportedly from Microsoft, claiming their computer had been compromised.  The bookkeeper then contacted someone they believed was tech support, who directed them to an individual posing as an FBI agent. Over two weeks, the bookkeeper was instructed to wire transfer approximately $314,000 internationally and make additional Bitcoin purchases totaling $6,270.

Due to a lack of security protocols, the bookkeeper made the transactions without anyone else’s knowledge or authorization. The transactions were discovered two weeks later by other department members. The bookkeeper and another member were placed on leave pending an internal investigation before resigning.

The FBI and county sheriff are investigating the scam, but the department said it is unlikely the funds will be recovered.

Following the incident, the department says it implemented new financial controls. Wire transfers have been disabled, all checks now require two signatures, and all transactions require two-step verification with the bank.  New bylaws and policies regarding spending have also been established.

The loss has forced the department to cut spending, perform previously contracted work in-house, and restructure existing debt. Despite the financial setback, the department said it remains committed to serving the community.