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Police investigating missing $47,000 from Gananda Youth Football program

President and Treasurer resign from organization

When the Gananda Youth Football & Cheerleading teams take the field next season, they may be doing so with fewer dollars in the bank and a careful eye on the books. At a Board meeting open to parents of children playing in the league held on Tuesday, January 29th at the Gananda Middle School Auditorium, it was announced that the 2006-2007 President of the organization and treasurer were resigning from the organization after it was discovered that close to $47,000 was missing. Between 55-60 people attended the meeting.

The organization's past president, John Gunio and treasurer, Thomas O'Connor, reportedly approached the board the day before the organization's elected transition for the 2008-2009 season. The Times has learned that Gunio had taken the money over a two-year period, supposedly dipping into the funds for his children's college costs and family needs.

The Times has also learned that Gunio hired County Public Defender/private attorney Ronald Valentine to represent him in the case. Sources have indicated that Valentine presented an offer for Gunio to totally repay the missing funds, if charges in the case could be avoided.

State Police were notified by concerned parents following the meeting and have begun an investigation. On Friday, State Police Investigator Robert Klinkman met with Gananda Youth Football President, Marty LaFica who took over the presidency on January 29th.

LaFica said he was not made aware of the missing funds until the day before the meeting. In a prepared statement LaFica stated:

"During our elected officer transition for the 2008 season 2007, elected officers willingly came forward to inform the 2008 Executive Officers of funds missing from our capital account."

The GYF&C executive board met for a complete review of the account and turned the matter over to police. The executive board then took immediate action by requesting that Gananda Youth Football & Cheerleading adopt new policies and procedures regarding the handling of financials. An Audit & Controls Subcommittee has been implemented made up of members of our club volunteering their CPA services. The board wishes to thank the community for their continued support of the team and families affected by this matter, and I assure you that Gananda Youth Football and Cheerleading will continue to provide this community with a quality program in 2008 and beyond."

LaFica indicated on Friday that 96.8% of the money, representing $45,748.93 has been repaid to the organization. “This has been tough,” said LaFica. He gave police a statement on Friday and the current treasurer was expected to sign a statement on Saturday. A charge of Grand Larceny is being prepared for Gunio.