Two Florida men stole over $100 million from nonprofit for disabled individuals
- Leo John Govoni and John Leo Witeck were indicted for stealing more than $100 million from a nonprofit for people with disabilities.
- The funds were misused for personal expenses, including private jet travel and luxury living.
- This fraud led to the bankruptcy of the nonprofit, significantly impacting vulnerable families reliant on its services.
In February 2024, federal authorities revealed a staggering fraud involving two men from Florida, Leo John Govoni and John Leo Witeck, who were implicated in a scheme that allegedly siphoned more than $100 million from a nonprofit organization named the Center for Special Needs Trust Administration (CSNT). This organization was established to manage and protect funds for individuals with disabilities and special needs. Govoni, who co-founded CSNT around 2000, and Witeck, an accountant, faced serious charges, including conspiracy to commit wire and mail fraud, multiple counts of fraud, and conspiracy to commit money laundering. The indictment detailed how, from June 2009 to May 2025, they misappropriated trust funds, turning them into a personal slush fund to enable a lavish lifestyle that included luxury travel, high-end real estate, and personal debts. The authorities explained that the scheme beneath which they operated was intricate, involving fraudulent financial statements that concealed the embezzlement of clients’ funds. These fraudulent actions not only depleted the nonprofit’s financial resources but also compromised services for vulnerable families who depended on the trust for access to critical financial support. The bankruptcy filing revealed an alarming deficit in client funds, causing distress among beneficiaries and their families. The FBI and other federal agencies marked this betrayal of trust as not only a financial crime but a major ethical breach against the community’s most vulnerable members. The case took shape amid widespread concern about the integrity of nonprofit organizations, particularly those serving individuals with disabilities. The situation drew attention from various investigative bodies, including the IRS Criminal Investigation and the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services, emphasizing the need for rigorous oversight and accountability within organizations entrusted with public goodwill and funds. The charges against Govoni and Witeck, who used complex financial maneuvers to disguise their theft, were labeled by U.S. Attorney Gregory Kehoe as unfathomable, necessitating significant legal consequences. As the investigation unfolded, it showcased not just the fraud but also how deeply such actions can impact access to essential services for those with special needs.Organizations like CSNT play a vital role in ensuring that individuals with disabilities receive the financial assistance they need to lead fulfilling lives, and any exploitation of that mission is viewed with grave concern by federal officials. The ramifications of this case extend far beyond the courtroom, representing a significant threat to the trust and safety that beneficiaries place in nonprofit organizations.