PBAA President Charged with Theft

Plum Borough Athletic Association president Richard Claypoole turned himself in to authorities at the office of Plum District Judge Linda Zucco on Thursday afternoon.

The Allegheny County District Attorney's office has charged Claypoole with theft by deception; and misapplication of entrusted property and property of government or financial institutions.

Last month, a search warrant was served by the DA's office to Claypoole and Richmar Sporting Goods, a business owned by Claypoole, in connection with the ongoing investigation into the Plum Borough Athletic Association's billings.

Claypoole, president of the PBAA, is accused of making $213,594.74 worth of payments to himself and his business, Richmar—the company provides equipment to the PBAA and is operated out of Claypoole's home—with PBAA funds between 2008 and 2011. Payments to Richmar totaled $89,248, according to the search warrant.

Claypoole is said to have purchased items for the PBAA from vendors at a lower price and then increasing the price to benefit himself.

According to the criminal complaint, Claypoole increased prices of items purchased through vendors by $18,095 "to benefit himself and not for the benefit of the association."

The DA's office has been investigating the PBAA organization since April due to allegations that the association has underreported income to the Internal Revenue Service.

In September, council had attempted to terminate the lease agreement , however, the . When they couldn't, the termination notice was sent again.The athletic association has leased eight ballfields along Ross Hollow Road for $1 a year.

The lease was expected to be terminated today, Dec. 1. Plum Borough Council is expected to discuss the matter at the Dec. 5 council meeting.

A preliminary hearing for Claypoole is set for Wednesday, Dec. 7, at 9 a.m.