HANCOCK COUNTY, W.Va. — A Hancock County man is facing a felony embezzlement charge after investigators allege he stole more than $11,000 from a local youth baseball and softball organization while serving as its treasurer.
According to the Hancock County Sheriff’s Office, David Andrew Brown was arrested Wednesday following an investigation into the finances of the Oak Glen Jr. Baseball and Softball Association.
The investigation began in early June after newly elected board members reported concerns about irregularities in the organization’s financial records. Officials said they provided documentation to investigators showing numerous questionable withdrawals and purchases that appeared unrelated to the league’s operations.
Detectives obtained financial records from multiple businesses and service providers as part of the investigation.
According to the criminal complaint, investigators found checks allegedly written from the association’s account to pay Brown’s personal utility bill. Additional records reportedly showed organization funds were used to purchase personal items, including clothing, hygiene products, automotive parts, gift cards, food, home security equipment and cleaning supplies from several retailers.
Authorities also allege money from the league’s account was used to purchase postal money orders that were applied toward personal credit card accounts.
Investigators estimate the documented losses exceed $11,000. Officials said that total does not include additional cash Brown allegedly admitted taking from registration fees, concession sales and raffle proceeds, nor money reportedly used to make payments on personal vehicles.
During an interview with investigators, Brown allegedly admitted to taking the money, telling detectives much of it was used to pay personal credit card debt. According to the complaint, he also stated the money was easy to steal because the organization lacked sufficient financial oversight.
The Oak Glen Jr. Baseball and Softball Association said its newly elected board identified financial irregularities during a review of the organization’s records and immediately turned the matter over to law enforcement rather than handling it internally.
The association said it has already begun implementing stronger financial controls, improved recordkeeping procedures and additional accountability measures to help prevent similar issues in the future.
Brown was released after posting a $20,000 bond. A court date has not yet been announced.
The association’s vice president said Brown’s removal from the organization is expected to be considered at the board’s next meeting.
Brown has retained legal counsel.
All defendants are presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty in a court of law.
