WARREN COUNTY -- The former treasurer of the Clearcreek Youth Soccer association is accused of stealing nearly $65,000 from the association.
Michelle Petrey and her attorney had nothing to say to multiple TV cameras as they left a Warren County courtroom.
Wednesday, Petrey, 44, pleaded guilty to stealing $64, 800.56 from the Clearcreek Youth Soccer Association over the last three years.
Warren County Prosecutor David Fornshell said Petrey served as treasurer for the organization and was the only one with access to their accounts. Fornshell said Petrey was using the money to pay off her credit cards, to pay her utility bills , and to go on shopping sprees to places like Kohl's.
"Some were direct cash payments to her self." Fornshell said.
"I think its horrible." Parent Christy Kuhlen said. "She was taking money from the kids, and kids have to fundraise, and work hard for that money." She said.
"Its extremely selfish, especially since she was someone everyone trusted with the money." Kuhlen added.
Fornshell said other board members found out about the theft after Petrey claimed the organization "was broke".
Board members along with Springboro police investigated and found more than 100 unauthorized payments from 2009 to 2012.
Fornshell said this proves there has to be a system of checks and balances.
"Its a warning to a lot of other charitable organizations. You really have to have a set of controls in terms of who is handling the money."
Petrey was released today on her own recognizance. Her sentencing date is set for February 4.
Michelle Petrey and her attorney had nothing to say to multiple TV cameras as they left a Warren County courtroom.
Wednesday, Petrey, 44, pleaded guilty to stealing $64, 800.56 from the Clearcreek Youth Soccer Association over the last three years.
Warren County Prosecutor David Fornshell said Petrey served as treasurer for the organization and was the only one with access to their accounts. Fornshell said Petrey was using the money to pay off her credit cards, to pay her utility bills , and to go on shopping sprees to places like Kohl's.
"Some were direct cash payments to her self." Fornshell said.
"I think its horrible." Parent Christy Kuhlen said. "She was taking money from the kids, and kids have to fundraise, and work hard for that money." She said.
"Its extremely selfish, especially since she was someone everyone trusted with the money." Kuhlen added.
Fornshell said other board members found out about the theft after Petrey claimed the organization "was broke".
Board members along with Springboro police investigated and found more than 100 unauthorized payments from 2009 to 2012.
Fornshell said this proves there has to be a system of checks and balances.
"Its a warning to a lot of other charitable organizations. You really have to have a set of controls in terms of who is handling the money."
Petrey was released today on her own recognizance. Her sentencing date is set for February 4.