Freehold township little league president accused of stealing more than $73,000 from youth baseball organization

The president of the Freehold Township Little League is charged with allegedly siphoning more than $73,000 from the organization through fraudulent reimbursements and unauthorized transfers over nearly three years.

The president of a Monmouth County youth baseball league has been charged with stealing tens of thousands of dollars from the organization he led, according to prosecutors.

Monmouth County Prosecutor Raymond S. Santiago announced that Donald Petito, 42, of Freehold, has been charged with third-degree theft by unlawful taking or disposition.

Investigation began after Crime Stoppers tip

The investigation was conducted by the Monmouth County Prosecutor’s Office Financial Crimes and Special Prosecutions Unit after authorities received a tip through Monmouth County Crime Stoppers.

Investigators allege Petito began stealing from the Freehold Township Little League in March 2022 and continued the scheme for nearly three years.

“The investigation revealed that starting in March 2022, Petito began submitting fraudulent reimbursement requests to the League for purchases with inflated values or not made at all,” prosecutors said.

Authorities allege Venmo transfers were diverted

In addition to the reimbursement scheme, investigators say Petito improperly transferred money from the league’s Venmo account.

According to prosecutors, league funds were allegedly moved into Petito’s personal Venmo account before being transferred again into a business account under his control.

“The investigation revealed that Petito also stole funds from the League’s Venmo funds by first transferring them to his personal Venmo account, then transferring them to a business account under his direct control,” the Monmouth County Prosecutor’s Office said.

Authorities estimate the total loss to the organization exceeded $73,000.

Charges filed against league president

Advertising sign at little league baseball field.

Petito was served with the charge by summons Thursday and is expected to appear in Monmouth County Superior Court at a later date.

The prosecutor’s office is asking anyone with additional information regarding Petito’s activities to contact Detective Debra Bassinder at 800-533-7443.

The case is being prosecuted by Assistant Prosecutor Kristen Anastos.

As with all criminal defendants, Petito is presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty in a court of law.

Community youth organization impacted

The allegations involve a community-based youth sports organization that serves local children and families throughout the Freehold area.

Prosecutors have not indicated whether additional charges may be filed as the investigation continues.

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• Freehold Township Little League President Donald Petito is charged with stealing more than $73,000 from the organization.

• Prosecutors allege he submitted fraudulent reimbursement requests and diverted league Venmo funds to accounts under his control.

• The investigation began after a Monmouth County Crime Stoppers tip and remains under review.

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