The Esterhazy Minor Hockey Association’s ex-treasurer significantly depleted the organization’s finances. Cory Johnathon Smith, aged 37, executed multiple electronic transfers, resulting in the theft of almost $45,000 within a seven-month period last year. Smith faced sentencing in Esterhazy, Saskatchewan, located approximately 180 kilometers east of Regina.
During the court proceedings, Crown prosecutor Fred Fisher revealed that upon discovering the organization’s near-empty bank accounts, board members feared having to cancel the hockey season in Esterhazy. To address this financial crisis, they sought a temporary suspension of ice fees and initiated fundraising campaigns. The association’s victim impact statement highlighted the adverse effects on operations, volunteers, community resources, trust, and programming for young athletes.
Glen Simon, the association’s former president, uncovered the embezzlement when businesses alerted him about outstanding bills. Further investigation revealed that Smith’s financial reports presented at board meetings were inaccurate due to the significant depletion of funds. After confrontation, Smith repaid $20,000 initially and had the remaining $24,798 ready for reimbursement through his lawyer’s trust account.
Subsequently, Smith was relieved of his duties as treasurer, prompting the association to revise its policies to prevent similar incidents in the future. Fisher proposed a one-year conditional sentence order for Smith, emphasizing the necessity of enhanced financial controls within non-profit organizations.
In defense, lawyer Raman Sharma advocated for a two-year conditional discharge, citing Smith’s remorse and acknowledgment of responsibility. Sharma attributed Smith’s actions to personal struggles during a turbulent period in his life, leading to regrettable choices. Smith’s occupation as a plumber, requiring clean criminal records, added weight to the plea for leniency to preserve his employment and financial stability.
Despite the defense’s arguments, the court sided with the prosecution, imposing a 12-month conditional sentence order on Smith. This ruling mandates adherence to strict conditions, including a curfew, sobriety, mental health support, full restitution, and a written apology to the Esterhazy Minor Hockey Association. The judge emphasized Smith’s breach of trust and the lasting impact of his actions on the community and organization.
