Former Church Finance Director Accused of $1.6 Million Embezzlement at St. Leo the Great
St. Leo the Great Church in Middletown Alleges Significant Financial Misconduct
MIDDLETOWN, NJ – A bombshell allegation has shaken the St. Leo the Great Church community in Lincroft, Middletown. The parish is accusing its former director of finance and operations, Joseph Manzi, of embezzling a staggering $1.6 million from church operating funds over the past six years. This revelation has sent ripples of disbelief and concern throughout the congregation and the wider Middletown area.
The church, formally announcing the accusations, stated that an internal review revealed a pattern of misappropriated funds dating back six years. While details of the alleged scheme remain under investigation, the sheer magnitude of the loss has prompted swift action from church officials. Authorities have been notified, and a thorough forensic audit is underway to determine the full extent of the financial damage and to recover the stolen assets.
Who is Joseph Manzi? Joseph Manzi held a position of considerable trust within the St. Leo the Great Church. As director of finance and operations, he was responsible for managing the church's financial resources, overseeing investments, and ensuring the smooth operation of the parish’s administrative functions. This position of authority, according to church leaders, appears to have been exploited for personal gain.
The Impact on the Church The loss of $1.6 million represents a significant blow to St. Leo the Great Church. The funds, which were intended for vital church programs, community outreach initiatives, and the upkeep of the historic church building, are now desperately needed. Church officials are working diligently to assess the financial impact and to explore options for mitigating the damage. Fundraising efforts are being considered to help bridge the financial gap and ensure the continued viability of the parish.
Legal Proceedings and Future Steps The Middletown Police Department is currently investigating the allegations against Mr. Manzi. The church has also engaged legal counsel to pursue all available avenues for recovering the stolen funds. It is anticipated that criminal charges will be filed against Mr. Manzi in the near future. The church is committed to transparency and will keep the congregation informed of the progress of the investigation and legal proceedings.
This incident serves as a stark reminder of the importance of robust financial controls and oversight within non-profit organizations. St. Leo the Great Church is reviewing its internal procedures to strengthen its financial safeguards and prevent similar incidents from occurring in the future. The community is left to grapple with the betrayal of trust and the significant financial challenge ahead, but remains steadfast in its faith and resolve.
Stay tuned for updates as this story develops.
