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SAULT STE MARIE -- In a Thursday news release from Chippewa County Prosecutor Rob Stratton, Stratton said that Matthew David Hudecek, former president, treasurer and coach of Soo Area Little League, was sentenced to 11 months in jail on Oct. 27 in the 50th Circuit Court after pleading guilty to embezzlement by an agent/trustee of $1,000 or more but less than $20,000.
"Over approximately two years from 2022 through to 2024, Hudecek misappropriated more than $46,000 from the nonprofit youth organization," said Stratton. "The investigation completed by the Michigan State Police revealed that Hudecek deposited organization funds into his personal bank account, forged the signatures of other board members on checks that he presented for deposit into his personal account and established a PayPal account that directed payments intended for Soo Area Little League into his personal bank account.
"At the time of sentencing, Assistant Prosecutor Michael Edwards advised the Court of the significant impact of Hudecek's actions on the organization and the children it serves. Due to the shortage of funds resulting from the embezzlement, Little League members went without jerseys and equipment. Members of the Soo Area Little League board also addressed the Court, describing the extensive time and effort volunteers devoted to fundraising and expressing concern that Hudecek's conduct had undermined the community's trust in an organization established to benefit local children.
"The Chippewa County Prosecutor's Office recognizes the dedication of the Soo Area Little League board members and volunteers who work to provide opportunities for local children, concluded Stratton's news release. "The prosecution of this case underscores the importance of accountability when individuals entrusted with managing community funds misuse that responsibility for personal gain."