A former treasurer for a local youth football organization has come under legal scrutiny after allegations surfaced regarding significant financial misconduct. Authorities have accused Jaella Richard, a 41-year-old resident of Bridgeville, of diverting an extensive amount from the South Fayette Township Youth Football Association's accounts. The discrepancy was first noticed by Ryan Kaczur, the association’s president, who grew suspicious about irregularities in the group’s financial records toward the end of last year.
Investigations revealed that Richard, appointed as treasurer in 2022, had misled members regarding the organization’s bank balance. Despite announcing a figure of $87,000 in June, she failed to provide updates at subsequent meetings, citing ongoing work on financial spreadsheets. However, a detailed review of bank statements showed the account held only $745.52, far less than expected. Evidence suggests that funds were transferred through Venmo for personal expenses, including mortgage payments, utility bills, and even entertainment subscriptions.
Legal action taken against Richard highlights the importance of transparency and accountability in managing communal resources. This case serves as a reminder of the critical need for vigilance in nonprofit organizations to protect funds intended for community benefit. It underscores the value of regular audits and clear communication channels within such groups to prevent similar incidents in the future.