A former treasurer of the Esterhazy Minor Hockey Association depleted the organization’s finances through unauthorized transactions. Cory Johnathon Smith, aged 37, conducted numerous e-transfers, resulting in the misappropriation of nearly $45,000 over a seven-month period last year. Smith faced sentencing in Esterhazy, Saskatchewan, located approximately 180 kilometers east of Regina.
The Crown prosecutor, Fred Fisher, revealed in court that upon discovering the near-empty bank accounts of the non-profit association, board members feared a possible cancellation of the hockey season in Esterhazy. Consequently, they appealed to the town for a temporary waiver on ice fees and launched fundraising initiatives. The impact of the theft disrupted the association’s operations, strained volunteer resources, and jeopardized programs for young athletes.
Glen Simon, the association’s president at the time, uncovered the fraudulent activities when contacted by businesses about outstanding bills. Following an investigation, it was revealed that the financial reports presented by Smith during board meetings were inaccurate, as the funds had been depleted. Subsequently, Smith repaid $20,000 initially and had the remaining $24,798, which he stole, secured in his lawyer’s trust account for repayment.
Smith was relieved of his duties as the hockey association’s treasurer. Fisher mentioned that, like many non-profits, the association previously allowed e-transfers with a single signatory, leading to the implementation of new policies mandating dual signatories for all transactions.
During the court proceedings, Fisher advocated for a one-year conditional sentence order for Smith, while defense lawyer Raman Sharma proposed a two-year conditional discharge to avoid a criminal record if Smith adhered to probation terms. Sharma highlighted Smith’s remorse and personal struggles during the time of the theft, attributing his actions to a tumultuous personal life affecting his mental well-being.
Judge Ross Green concurred with the Crown’s stance and imposed a 12-month conditional sentence order on Smith, necessitating compliance with specific conditions, including repayment of the stolen funds, participation in mental health programs, and a written apology to the Esterhazy Minor Hockey Association.