Chad Daley, the former president of the Snowdrifters of Stratford snowmobile club in Fulton County, has pleaded guilty to stealing $17,000 from the nonprofit organization. The announcement was made by State Comptroller Thomas P. DiNapoli, Fulton County District Attorney Mike Poulin, and New York State Police Superintendent Steven G. James.
Daley, 52, admitted to misusing his position over a period spanning late 2018 through 2023. He stole $5,300 in checks payable to the club by depositing them into his personal bank account, transferred more than $3,000 from the club’s account to his own, and wrote a $3,500 check from the club that was cashed by his longtime partner. In addition, he withdrew over $5,000 in cash without authorization or supporting documentation and used the club’s tax-exempt status to purchase snowmobiles and trailers for himself using organizational funds.
As part of a plea agreement entered before Judge Nicholas Rissmeyer in Stratford Town Court, Daley paid full restitution to the club.
“Chad Daley abused his position to enrich himself with funds meant to support his community,” said DiNapoli. “Any violation of the public’s trust for personal gain is unacceptable. Thanks to our partnership with District Attorney Poulin and the New York State Police in this case, Mr. Daley has been held accountable for his crimes.”
James stated: “I commend our State Police members, the State Comptroller’s Office, and Fulton County District Attorney’s Office for their rigorous work on this case. This individual abused the position he was entrusted in, taking thousands of dollars that were meant to keep snowmobile trails and the community safe. We have zero tolerance for those who seek to defraud others and put the unsuspecting public in harm’s way.”
The Snowdrifters of Stratford receives funding from both New York state and Fulton County for maintaining snowmobile trails in the Adirondacks region.
Since assuming office in 2007, DiNapoli has focused on addressing public corruption issues and encourages residents to report suspected fraud involving taxpayer money through several channels including a toll-free hotline (1-888-672-4555), email ([email protected]), or mail directed to the Office of the State Comptroller’s Division of Investigations.
