Overview of the Scandal

In a stunning twist of events, the Calgary Police have formally charged a woman who served as the vice-president and treasurer of a local girls' fastball association with embezzling more than $125,000 from the organization. The accused, Leilani Calmusky, reportedly siphoned funds over a two-year period, leaving the association in dire straits.

Discovery of the Fraud

The alarming discovery came to light on June 16, 2023, when board members were shocked to find a cheque issued for a tournament fee had bounced. Concerned by this anomaly, an internal review was launched, which revealed a far more troubling situation. Investigators uncovered that Calmusky had been making multiple e-transfers to her personal accounts while also writing unauthorized cheques to herself.

Impact on the Organization

The investigation revealed that the girls' fastball association's accounts showed negative balances, and the organization incurred substantial debts to vendors, which Calmusky was expected to manage. This breach of trust has raised serious alarms within the sports community, as local organizations rely on transparent financial practices to support youth athletics.

Official Reporting and Legal Implications

On June 21, 2023, the potential fraud was officially reported to the police, triggering an extensive investigation that ultimately led to the charges against Calmusky. She now faces charges of defrauding a person over $5,000 and breach of trust, highlighting the severe legal implications of her alleged actions.

Court Appearance and Community Appeal

Leilani Calmusky is scheduled to appear in court on December 10, and authorities are urging anyone who may have additional information about the case or related incidents to come forward. Tips can be submitted to Crime Stoppers anonymously, ensuring that any contributions can help strengthen the investigation.

Lessons for Nonprofit Organizations

This scandal serves as a cautionary tale about the importance of accountability and transparency in nonprofit organizations, particularly those involved in youth sports. As this case unfolds, many will be watching closely, and it raises the pressing question: how can organizations better safeguard their finances against similar fraud in the future? Stay tuned for updates on this developing story.