A pastor in Tioga County is accused of stealing from his church and charity.

27 year old David Heckman lives in Binghamton.

He is the pastor of First Congregational United Church of Christ in Newark Valley.

He was also treasurer of the Tioga County Chapter of Habitat For Humanity.

State Police say Heckman stole more than $50,000.

He collected and kept cash mortgage payments from homeowners who live in Habitat built homes.

State Police say Habitat discovered money missing from its bank account when checks started to bounce.

Earlier this week, state police arrested Heckman for making unauthorized purchases charged to the church.

Investigators say he was away on vacation when the church noticed past due bills that amount to $1,500 dollars.

Heckman faces two charges of Grand Larceny.

State Police say he's on a leave of absence from the church and was replaced as Habitat treasurer.

Tioga County Habitat for Humanity's President Fred McGuire says although the board is unable to discuss personnel matters at this time, they are fully cooperating with the State Police investigation.

McGuire also says the board is taking steps to ensure that stronger financial controls are in place.