President, treasurer of Lynchburg youth baseball, softball league charged with embezzlement

Detectives found they embezzled more than $20,000 since October 2017

LYNCHBURG, Va. – The president and treasurer of a Lynchburg baseball and softball league for kids have been charged with embezzling more than $20,000 from the non-profit, according to police.

A discrepancy in the Timberlake Dixie Youth financial reports was found in October, and the non-profit's board members asked the Lynchburg Police Department to investigate. 

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After several weeks, detectives found that money from fundraising events, sponsorships and registration fees had been improperly used. 

Detectives say they believe the activity began in 2017 and continued through October 2018 with a total loss of more than $20,000. 

44-year-old Richard Matthews, the president, and 50-year-old April Matthews, the treasurer, have been charged with two counts of embezzlement and two counts of obtaining money by false pretense. 

Both suspects were arrested and transported to Blue Ridge Regional Jail. 

The vice president of the Timberlake Dixie Youth Board of Directors released the following statement: 

"As for the future of Timberlake Dixie Youth we have a group of hard-working, dedicated individuals who are committed to continuing the great programs for the youth in our community.  We will continue to provide a safe, fun, and learning environment for all kids involved which is what our mission statement is based on.  The outpouring of support from not only current parents players and coaches but from past participants as well has been overwhelming.  We look forward to serving the kids in our community for many years to come.” 


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