Former Soo Area Little League President Sentenced for Embezzling from Youth Organization

SAULT STE. MARIE, Mich. — Matthew David Hudecek, former president, treasurer and coach of Soo Area Little League, was sentenced on October 27, 2026, in the 50th Circuit Court after pleading guilty to Embezzlement by an Agent/Trustee of $1,000 or more but less than $20,000, a felony punishable by up to five years in state prison. The Honorable James P. Lambros sentenced Hudecek to 11 months in jail, the maximum term under his sentencing guidelines.

Over approximately two years from 2022 through to 2024, Hudecek misappropriated more than $46,000 from the nonprofit youth organization. The investigation completed by the Michigan State Police revealed that Hudecek deposited organization funds into his personal bank account, forged the signatures of other board members on checks that he presented for deposit into his personal account, and established a PayPal account that directed payments intended for Soo Area Little League into his personal bank account.

At the time of sentencing, Assistant Prosecutor Michael Edwards advised the Court of the significant impact of Hudecek’s actions on the organization and the children it serves. Due to the shortage of funds resulting from the embezzlement, Little League members went without jerseys and equipment. Members of the Soo Area Little League board also addressed the Court, describing the extensive time and effort volunteers devoted to fundraising and expressing concern that Hudecek’s conduct had undermined the community’s trust in an organization established to benefit local children.

Hudecek’s sentencing guidelines called for a minimum sentence ranging from zero to 11 months. Judge Lambros imposed the maximum sentence within that range, ordering Hudecek to serve 11 months in jail. In explaining the sentence, Judge Lambros emphasized the significance of Hudecek’s repayment of the stolen funds, advising him that, had he not repaid the full amount, the Court would have exceeded the guidelines and sentenced him to prison for stealing from children.

“This case is about more than money. It is about the trust placed in someone who was responsible for an organization serving our community’s children,” said Prosecutor Robert L. Stratton. “The participating families and volunteers who dedicate their time to fundraising and supporting youth sports should be able to trust that those funds will go toward the children they are intended to benefit. The consequences of this conduct extended beyond the financial loss, affecting the children, the volunteers, and the confidence the community places in this organization.”

The Chippewa County Prosecutor’s Office recognizes the dedication of the Soo Area Little League board members and volunteers who work to provide opportunities for local children. The prosecution of this case underscores the importance of accountability when individuals entrusted with managing community funds misuse that responsibility for personal gain.