A shocking case of embezzlement has rocked a Pennsylvania youth sports program, with the treasurer accused of stealing nearly $150,000 for personal use. Carla O’Brien, 48, who served as the treasurer for the Fox Chapel Area Baseball Softball Association, allegedly misappropriated funds over a five-year period between 2019 and 2024. Reports indicate that O’Brien used the stolen money on concerts and extravagant shopping sprees, leaving the youth league in financial turmoil.
O’Brien, the wife of a Pittsburgh police lieutenant, was arrested and charged with theft and related offenses. The organization, which caters to around 750 kids in nearly three dozen teams, has vowed to cooperate with law enforcement in the investigation. The alleged theft came to light when O’Brien was replaced as treasurer last July, and the new treasurer discovered discrepancies in the financial accounts.
According to prosecutors, O’Brien began stealing from the youth league shortly after taking on the role of treasurer. Her scheme was exposed when she failed to meet with her replacement to hand over financial records, prompting suspicions from the board of directors. O’Brien eventually admitted to the theft, citing financial difficulties after a car accident left her and her husband out of work.
The fraudster reportedly spent the stolen funds at various retailers, including Sephora, Amazon, Kohls, Nike, and more. Payments were also made to restaurants, pharmacies, concert venues, liquor stores, and pet supply shops. O’Brien used the money to pay off credit cards and other expenses, leading to charges of theft by unlawful taking, misapplication of entrusted property, receiving stolen property, and access device fraud.
Her attorney, Phil DiLucente, stated that they are working towards resolving the matter swiftly. O’Brien is scheduled to appear in court on April 23 to face the charges. The Fox Chapel Area Baseball Softball Association is committed to ensuring that justice is served and that measures are put in place to prevent such incidents in the future.
