**Former Treasurer Accused of Embezzling Funds from High School Football Nonprofit**
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A former treasurer of a non-profit organisation supporting high school football has been charged with embezzling over £400,000 intended for the Aliso Niguel High School football programme. Julie Hanway Molina, 56, was arrested at her home in Aliso Viejo on 10 September following a federal indictment that includes four counts of wire fraud.
According to the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the Central District of California, Molina allegedly diverted approximately $411,761 from the Wolverine Football Club’s bank account between 2023 and November 2025. This money was reportedly used to pay her overdue mortgage and credit card bills, actions that were concealed from the non-profit’s members and the board.
The federal grand jury indictment, which was returned on 2 September, outlines Molina’s role as treasurer, which involved responsibilities such as co-signing checks, maintaining financial records, and managing approved disbursements. Prosecutors allege that, on 23 June 2023, she transferred approximately $131,523 from the nonprofit’s account in Laguna Hills to another account in Santa Ana, using Federal Reserve facilities located in New Jersey and Texas.
In a bid to obscure the transactions, Molina is accused of sending misleading treasurer reports to board members that did not reflect the alleged misappropriation of funds. This deceptive approach raises serious questions about financial oversight and transparency within the organisation.
The Wolverine Football Club has issued a statement acknowledging their awareness of the situation regarding their former treasurer. They confirmed their ongoing cooperation with law enforcement throughout the investigation. The statement also noted that the current board is dedicated to the continued support of student-athletes and the football programme, despite the ongoing legal proceedings.
Mayor of Aliso Viejo, Max Duncan, expressed confidence in the community’s resilience, stating that local families would come together to support the football programme. He emphasised the strong community spirit shared amongst residents, highlighting their determination to recover from this unfortunate turn of events.
If found guilty, Molina could face a maximum of 20 years in prison for each count of wire fraud. It is important to note that an indictment represents allegations against an individual, and she remains presumed innocent until proven guilty in a court of law.
The charges against Molina serve as a reminder of the critical need for accountability and oversight in non-profit organisations, especially when funds are directed towards supporting youth programmes. The Wolverine Football Club’s experience may prompt similar organisations to review their financial management practices to prevent such incidents from occurring in the future.
As the legal situation unfolds, the attention of the local community and stakeholders will remain focused on the integrity of the programme and the welfare of the student-athletes involved, many of whom rely on the support of such non-profits to pursue their sporting ambitions.