JACKSON, N.J. (1010 WINS) -- The former president and treasurer of a New Jersey little league organization is accused of stealing thousands of dollars from a former Little League World Series contender.
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Anthony Del Vecchio, 64, and John Lehmann, 56, are accused of embezzling $118,000 from Holbrook Little League in Jackson.
The men were charged with second degree theft and conspiracy to commit theft.
"The indictment is not a negative reflection of the willingness of all parties to try and resolve the case amicably," Del Vecchio's attorney Richard Lomurro said. "It is simply a product of procedure. We will continue to work with the state to reach the best resolution possible for all parties involved."
Lehman's attorney Michael Chazen confirmed to the Asbury Park Press that his client had been named as well.
"We have not yet been provided with any of the paperwork to support this indictment," Chazen said. "That being said, Mr. Lehmann is presumed to be innocent and until such time as the state can prove otherwise, he is an innocent man."
The investigation unfolded after parents said they were waiting months for money from donors who were helping to defray the costs of the team's Little League World Series run. Accountants and finance professionals were eventually brought in to straighten things out.
"It's been a long road, and there's been a lot to get through," Holbrook Little League board member John Braun said. "Unfortunately, we can't just snap our fingers and get it done. ... While it's a shame that all this happened, we’re looking forward to the future at Holbrook, and just want to make sure everything is being done right for the children."
This isn't the first time embezzlement has been an issue in Jersey Shore youth sports. Former officials of youth sports leagues have been accused of stealing over $1.4 million in Monmouth and Ocean Counties over the last decade.