Delco Police Chief Drew $50,000 In Overtime Patrols He Never Worked: DA

UPLAND, PA — A police chief in Delaware County collected more than $50,000 in overtime pay for hours he did not work, the district attorney's office announced.

Upland borough Chief Michael Irey has been charged with numerous counts of theft by deception, fabricating evidence, obstructing justice, and related charges.

“The badge carries a responsibility that does not end when the shift is over, and public trust should never be treated as a personal paycheck," District Attorney Tanner Rouse said in a statement. "Michael Irey used his position to collect more than $50,000 for overtime he never worked, betraying both the public and the officers who faithfully serve their communities."

The investigation began on Dec. 5, 2025, when an Upland Police Department employee notified the DA about eight officers who had filed complaints regarding the chief.

Specifically, officers said that Irey was assigned to patrol at Chester Community Charter School and on a roving DUI patrol. The school and PennDOT each pay for the overtime rate of an officer through a special grant.

However, officers said that he never reported for duty to either patrol.

Officers were initially afraid to report the situation for fear of retaliation, DA said.

"I commend the officers who had the courage to come forward and expose this misconduct," Rouse added. "They demonstrated exactly what we expect from those who wear the badge: integrity, accountability, and the willingness to do what is right, even when it is difficult. Their actions are a reminder that protecting the integrity of law enforcement sometimes means holding one of your own accountable."

Review of cellphone data, bank records, time keeping, and license plate readers led detectives to confirm that Rouse had been paid for around $50,000 in overtime shifts which he did not work, according to officials.

A warrant was issued on Nov. 5 and he was arrested in New Jersey on Nov. 9 on unrelated charges. He is currently awaiting extradition back to Delaware County.

The investigation is ongoing. Anyone with information should contact Sergeant Edward Rosen, at 610-891-
4700.