Overview
- Federal authorities arrested Christopher J. Gerstel and indicted him on 17 counts including 12 wire fraud counts and five tax-related counts after a federal grand jury returned charges.
- Prosecutors say Gerstel diverted about $250,000 from Needham Baseball and Softball by making more than 200 transfers through the league’s umpire and payment software.
- Authorities allege the money was spent on personal obligations such as paying down credit card debt, making car payments, country club charges, and cash withdrawals at casinos including Mohegan Sun.
- The alleged scheme was uncovered when a newly appointed NBS treasurer reviewed the books and found the missing funds and the pattern of transfers.
- Town officials say there is no sign town accounts were affected and Gerstel faces significant prison terms and fines if convicted as the federal case moves forward with an initial court appearance scheduled in Boston.