A youth baseball organization in Las Vegas has been rocked by allegations that its former president embezzled tens of thousands of dollars from league funds for personal use, including gambling, adult entertainment and other unrelated expenses.
Little League Head Accused of $64K Fund Misuse
The suspect Steve Rodriguez Prado, 38, is from Henderson and was arrested in early July following a months-long investigation initiated after concerns were brought to the league earlier this year, authorities said. Discrepancies in the finances and a fast-dwindling balance in the organization’s account reportedly raised red flags for officials, reported The Las Vegas Review-Journal.
Investigators later discovered that more than $64,000 had been withdrawn or spent in less than five months. It was said more than $55,000 of the funds was sent through digital payment platforms into accounts linked to the suspect or his associates. Other expenses included all sorts of personal costs like transportation services, insurance payments, even airline tickets.
Among the most prominent charges were payments tied to nightlife venues on the Las Vegas Strip. Records show the man spent more than $1,300 during one visit to a strip club, including top-shelf liquor, service charges and tips. There were also a lot of payments at casino bars and sports betting locations and smaller purchases at lounges and entertainment venues.
Police also cited purchases of drugs for adult use, which they said had no proper connection with a youth sports organization. The costs were part of a wider pattern of abuse and not just isolated incidents, investigators said.
Little League Season Survives Despite Major Financial Setback
Authorities say the financial documents given to the league’s board had been altered, as had the alleged spending. The investigation revealed that bank statements had been manipulated to hide outgoing transfers and to falsely present the organization’s financial position. The misuse was uncovered after official records were obtained through the proper legal channels.
The financial toll on the league was tough. At one point, the balance was reported to be near zero, leading to speculation as to whether the season would continue. Ultimately, community support and donations helped to stabilize the situation and allow activities to continue.
The suspect is now charged with a range of offenses including theft and forgery. Law enforcement officials also cited a criminal history in California from more than a decade ago. Prado is said to have described the allegations as exaggerated during questioning but declined to elaborate.
The investigation is ongoing, and a court hearing in the case is scheduled for later this month.