A former finance executive for the NBA’s Atlanta Hawks has been accused of embezzling $3.8 million from the franchise, according to a report from The Athletic.
Lester Jones, 46, was charged with fraud and embezzlement, according to an indictment in late October by the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the Northern District of Georgia. He pleaded guilty and was released on $10,000 bond.
Jones, who is no longer employed by the Hawks, served as the team’s senior vice president of financial planning and analysis. He worked for the team for more than a decade until his departure earlier this year.
In his role, Jones controlled the Hawks’ American Express card account and allegedly used his position to authorize purchases trips to Hawaii, the Bahamas, Thailand, Switzerland and more; tickets to concerts and events; and a Porsche, according to The Athletic. He is also accused of using the account to purchase gifts for another team employee with whom he was in a romantic relationship.
Jones attempted to cover up his spending by altering financial reports and faking emails, federal prosecutors said.
Former NBA executive accused of embezzling $3.8 million from team for vacations, car
