Embezzlement Scandal Rocks Hoover High School Basketball Booster Club

In a shocking turn of events, a North Canton woman has been indicted on felony charges for allegedly stealing thousands of dollars from the Hoover Hoops Booster Club, which funds the Hoover High School basketball team. The indictment alleges that the theft occurred over a five-year period, with the amount stolen ranging from $7,500 to a staggering $150,000.

Uncovering the Betrayal of Trust: A Cautionary Tale for Sports Booster Clubs

The Indictment and Charges

The Stark County grand jury has indicted 47-year-old Billie Jo Boyajian on three felony charges: grand theft, forgery, and misuse of credit cards. The indictment alleges that Boyajian, who was entrusted with managing the booster club's funds, systematically siphoned money from the organization over an extended period, from January 2019 to April 2024. This breach of trust has left the Hoover High School basketball community reeling, as they grapple with the aftermath of this financial scandal.

The Scope of the Theft

According to the indictment, the amount stolen by Boyajian ranges from a minimum of $7,500 to a staggering maximum of $150,000. This significant sum of money, intended to support the Hoover High School basketball team and its programs, has been diverted for personal gain, leaving the school and the community to pick up the pieces.

The Aftermath and Implications

The indictment has sent shockwaves through the Hoover High School community, raising questions about the oversight and accountability measures in place for booster club funds. The school administration has yet to comment on the situation, but it is clear that the repercussions of this theft will be far-reaching, affecting the team's ability to access the resources they need to succeed both on and off the court.

The Importance of Transparency and Accountability in Sports Booster Clubs

This incident serves as a stark reminder of the importance of transparency and accountability within sports booster clubs. These organizations play a vital role in supporting student-athletes and their programs, and it is crucial that the funds entrusted to them are managed with the utmost care and integrity. The Hoover High School community must now grapple with the aftermath of this betrayal, and it is hoped that this case will inspire other schools and booster clubs to reevaluate their financial practices and implement stronger safeguards to prevent similar incidents from occurring in the future.