Softball Team Hit by Embezzlement

A shocking case of embezzlement has rocked a local softball organization in Old Lycoming, Pennsylvania. Kari Rebecca Montoya, the 39-year-old treasurer of the Silver Bullets girls’ fastpitch softball team, has been accused of stealing over $12,000 from the team’s funds over a two-year period.

According to police, Montoya admitted to the theft in an email sent to a team member in June. She claimed she wanted to ‘make it right’ and expressed remorse for her actions. However, the damage had already been done, with the team’s bank account showing a significant shortfall. An investigation revealed that Montoya had indeed embezzled $12,800, which was meant to cover expenses such as tournament fees, player costs, and fundraisers.

The Silver Bullets organization, which comprises several teams for girls aged 10 to 18, offers year-round access to facilities and participates in high-level tournaments throughout the year. The embezzlement has likely caused significant disruption to the team’s activities and finances. Montoya is facing charges of theft by unlawful taking and failure to make required deposits of funds. She has been released on $15,000 bail and is scheduled to appear in court on December 17.

The incident highlights the importance of transparency and accountability in organizational finances, particularly in volunteer-run groups like sports teams. It also serves as a reminder for teams to implement robust financial controls and monitoring systems to prevent such incidents in the future.