Soccer club embezzler sentenced for $64,000 swindle

LEBANON, Ohio (WDTN) - A Springboro woman was sentenced, Feb. 3, for stealing money from the Clearcreek Youth Soccer Association.

Michele Petrey, 44, was sentenced to three years community control, which includes 90 days in county jail, 100 hours community service, and restitution to the association. Common Pleas Court Judge Robert Peeler also ordered that Petrey shall not serve on any boards of any organizations in a voluntary capacity or in respect to finances.

Petrey embezzled $64,800.56 from the Clearcreek Youth Soccer Association accounts from 2008 through 2012 while she was the treasurer of the organization.

Petrey has previously repaid $11,998.48, and her attorney produced the balance of $52,802.08 at the hearing. 

If she fails to comply with all of the terms of community control, she faces a possible prison sentence of 18 months. 

After the hearing, Warren County Prosecutor David Fornshell said this case should prompt all non-profit organizations to examine their systems for handling money. 

"This case should serve as a warning to other charitable and youth organizations to implement anti-theft procedures and internal controls to prevent the misappropriation of funds, and that there are severe consequences for those who violate the trust placed in them," said Fornshell.