Local Couple Accused Of Stealing From Youth Football Program
NEW CASTLE (KDKA) -- A couple from New Castle is accused of stealing money from a youth football program.
Frank and Karen Bongivengo are facing charges of conspiracy, theft, forgery and tampering with records.
State police say the couple stole $3,600 from the program which he also manages.
"That money could have been used for equipment, used for the players, fundraisers," John Adamo, a former New Castle football player, said.
The state attorney's office says the Bongivengos transferred money from the football fund to their personal bank accounts to cover overdrafts.
"Terrible," Adamo said. "You're supposed to be a role model for the kids. How are you going to say, 'Do right, do right,' when you do that."
Aside from coaching football, Frank Bongivengo is a civics teacher at the high school. Students say he's a good teacher.
State police have been investigating the case for nearly a year. The deputy state attorney general says the couple plan to turn themselves in to the magistrate's office on Monday.
If convicted, they could face maximum sentences of five years.
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