Former Gregg Township Official Sentenced for Embezzling Over $500K to Fund Gambling Addiction
Introduction
A former official from Gregg Township in Pennsylvania has been sentenced to prison after admitting to stealing more than half a million dollars over several years to support a gambling addiction.
Details of the Sentence
Centre County Judge Katie Oliver sentenced the 56-year-old former township secretary and treasurer to two to four years in state prison followed by two years of probation. In addition to serving time, the individual has been ordered to repay over $615,000, covering the stolen amount of $533,000 plus tax penalties, legal fees, and other related costs.
Misuse of Township Funds Over Six Years
The judge described the offenses as serious violations that took place throughout nearly the entire six years of the individual’s tenure. Prosecutors detailed how the former official systematically abused her exclusive access to the township’s bank accounts for personal gain.
Investigations revealed that she made 3,664 personal charges on township credit cards between March 2019—just two months after starting the job—and May 2024. Of these, around 2,700 purchases were made specifically to DraftKings, amounting to over $322,000 spent on gambling. Additionally, she transferred about $150,000 to herself using Venmo.
Beyond gambling expenses, township funds were misused for daily living costs, including shopping, meals, utility bills, visits to nail salons, and purchases at liquor stores. She was suspended without pay in the spring and ultimately dismissed in December.
Impact on the Community
The theft has had significant repercussions on the rural community of approximately 2,260 residents. Local officials described ongoing turmoil and disruptions including delays in essential road projects. The scandal reportedly also affected the health of former board chair Charles Stover, who passed away earlier this year. Community members expressed severe disappointment and outrage during the sentencing.
Response and Moving Forward
In her statement, the former official expressed remorse and noted her participation in Gamblers Anonymous and counseling as steps toward recovery. Township leaders have since implemented stricter financial controls, including regular audits and mandatory background checks to prevent similar incidents.
Board chair Ben Haupt commented on the situation, expressing hope that she receives the help she needs to recover from her addiction.
Related Cases
Notably, similar cases have arisen, such as a recent criminal case in Maryland involving a former PTA president accused of embezzling public funds for gambling and other personal expenditures.
