Ocean County Prosecutor Bradley D. Billhimer announced that Mr. James Hirsch, 49, of Jackson Township, was charged with Theft.
Officials said Hirsch served as President of the Jackson Youth Football and Cheerleading Organization from December 2016 through March 2018.
The Ocean County Prosecutor’s Office Economic Crime Unit and Jackson Township Police Department Detective Bureau conducted an investigation after they received information regarding Hirsch’s mishandling of the league’s finances.
Officials say further investigation revealed that Hirsch was utilizing funds from the league account, including the misuse of a league-owned ATM card for personal expenses, and that he misappropriated funds exceeding $8000.
Hirsch was taken into custody and processed without incident, and released on a summons pending a future court date.
Prosecutor Billhimer would like to acknowledge the Ocean County Prosecutor’s Office Economic Crime Squad, Jackson Township Police Department Detective Bureau, and Jackson Township Police Department for their diligent efforts investigating this matter.
“This individual violated the trust of the many families and children who comprise the Jackson Youth Football and Cheerleading Organization,” Prosecutor Billhimer stated. “Rather than leading the organization with honesty and integrity, he betrayed the faith and confidence that was placed in him by using the league as his own personal piggy bank.
This type of exploitation – stealing from kids and their families – will not be tolerated,” Prosecutor Billhimer concluded.
The press and the public are reminded that all defendants are presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty beyond a reasonable doubt in a court of law.