A former treasurer of the Esterhazy Minor Hockey Association significantly depleted the organization’s finances through unauthorized e-transfers, resulting in a theft of nearly $45,000 over a seven-month period. The individual, Cory Johnathon Smith, appeared in court in Esterhazy, Saskatchewan, for sentencing. The Crown prosecutor highlighted the financial strain this caused, almost leading to the cancellation of the hockey season in Esterhazy. The association faced challenges, including suspending ice fees temporarily and initiating fundraising efforts to recover from the financial loss.
The theft was uncovered when businesses contacted Glen Simon, the association’s president at the time, about unpaid bills. Upon investigation, it was revealed that Smith had provided inaccurate financial reports during board meetings, concealing the depletion of funds. Smith initially repaid $20,000 and had the remaining stolen amount of $24,798 ready for reimbursement.
Following the incident, the organization revised its policies to prevent such unauthorized transactions in the future. The court considered sentencing options, with the Crown advocating for a one-year conditional sentence order, while the defense proposed a two-year conditional discharge. The defense lawyer cited personal challenges faced by Smith, including a difficult separation and mental health issues, leading to his regrettable actions.
Despite the defense’s plea for leniency, the judge imposed a 12-month conditional sentence order on Smith, which includes specific conditions such as a curfew, abstaining from substances, undergoing mental health programming, full repayment of the stolen amount, and issuing a written apology to the Esterhazy Minor Hockey Association. This decision ensures that Smith will have a criminal record and potential jail time if he violates the conditions set by the court.