Lester T. Jones, former chief operating officer of the NBA’s Atlanta Hawks, has been arrested on charges of fraud and embezzling $3.8 million belonging to the team, according to the reputable outlet The Athletic.
Jones has pleaded not guilty and was released on bail. He is no longer employed by the organization, and the alleged misappropriation came to light during a financial audit.
Prosecutors allege that Jones controlled a team bank account and could approve payments. He reportedly also used corporate credit cards for personal expenses.
Investigators claim Jones used the stolen funds to maintain a lavish lifestyle, including international travel and purchases of luxury cars and high-end goods.
He is also accused of buying gifts for his girlfriend, who is also a former Hawks employee. Furthermore, Jones allegedly falsified financial reports and charged personal expenses to the team’s accounts in an attempt to conceal his actions. The club has not yet issued a public statement on the matter.
Currently, the Atlanta Hawks hold a 3-4 record and are ranked 11th in the NBA’s Eastern Conference standings.
