Lester Jones, senior vice president of financial planning and analysis for the Atlanta Hawks, was charged with fraud and embezzling $3.8 million from the NBA franchise. Federal prosecutors allege that Jones used his position to finance a lavish lifestyle over several years.
Jones, 46, of Atlanta, was charged last week by the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the Northern District of Georgia. Evidence of his alleged crimes was uncovered through a team-backed audit, multiple league sources told The Athletic.
Jones pleaded not guilty and was released last week on $10,000 bail. He is no longer employed by the Hawks and is facing a federal fraud charge.
Prosecutors allege Jones had control of the team’s American Express card account and authorized multiple corporate cards for himself. According to the indictment, he had the ability to charge others.
Jones allegedly used stolen money during trips to the Bahamas, Hawaii, Thailand and Switzerland. He also paid for a Porsche and bought tickets to concerts and other events, prosecutors said.
In January, Jones requested payment of a $229,968.76 American Express bill for an alleged stay at the Wynn Hotel in Las Vegas. Prosecutors say there was no residence at the Wynn and no legitimate bill.
Jones allegedly altered an American Express email to trick the Hawks into paying for personal expenses. He told a Hawks employee that the money had been used for “NBA Emirates Cup, Tickets, Credentials, Logistics, Room.”
“At least I know Wynn’s number is correct,” Jones wrote to colleagues after sending the amended email.
Jones was in a romantic relationship with another team employee, sources from multiple leagues said. According to sources, he used some of the stolen money to buy expensive gifts for her.
The woman also no longer works for the Hawks. She could not be reached for comment.
Jones spent nearly a decade in the Hawks’ finance department.
#Hawks #Finance #accused #stealing #million #fake #hotel #bills #corporate #cards