A judge has sentenced Lester T. Jones, Jr., the former Vice President of Finance for the Atlanta Hawks, to more than three years in prison. He was found guilty of embezzling $3.7 million in team money. Lester reportedly has the cash to fund jewelry purchases and lavish vacations, which he did by charging things to the company credit card.
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"Jones turned his dream job as a high-ranking executive for the Atlanta Hawks into an opportunity to steal the team's funds, purchasing luxury apparel, jewelry, watches, and trips for himself," Theodore S. Hertzberg, a U.S. Attorney, said on Wednesday, April 29. "But, for Jones and others who abuse their employers' trust to embezzle substantial funds, the gravy train's final destination is federal prison."
According to TMZ, Lester took control of the Hawks' accounts in 2021, having worked with the team since 2016. He was reportedly the only member of staff who had such wide-ranging financial access.
"He allegedly racked up an insane tab by filling out bogus expense reports and using the company card for personal use like luxury apparel, jewelry, watches and vacations," TMZ reports.
In total, Lester reportedly spent $80,000 on vacations to the Bahamas and Thailand. He spent a further $100,000 on purchases from Saks Fifth Avenue and another $115,000 on a diamond ring. It doesn't stop there, though; Lester is also believed to have spent north of $160,000 for events and $22,000 on watches and jewelry.
The Atlanta Hawks Are Currently in the NBA Playoffs
Despite the distraction of Lester's arrest and court case, the Atlanta Hawks fought their way into a spot in the NBA Playoffs. The franchise is currently in a battle with the New York Knicks for the chance to reach the Eastern Conference Semifinals. New York leads the series 3-2.
Atlanta will be back in action on Thursday, April 30. A loss would mean the team's season is over. However, if they can secure a win, they will head back to New York for a do-or-die game seven. Interestingly, Atlanta's fortunes turned around after trading away star point guard Trae Young earlier in the season.
Regardless how things shake out in the playoffs, all eyes will be on how the Hawks look to contiue improving their roster throughout the summer and into next season.
