A Sharpsville man tasked with handling the finances of the Mercer County Girl’s Softball League is accused of pocketing $38,000 from that organization.

Brent Hanley, 54, was brought before a District Magistrate on Monday to answer seven criminal charges filed by the District Attorney.

According to a court document, Hanley was the league’s treasurer from 2017 until the middle of last year when he was fired.  During this time, Hanley allegedly diverted $38,000 of the league’s funds into his bank account.

The money was from registration fees that were supposed to be used for promoting softball games and tournaments, purchasing equipment, and paying umpires.

Investigators say Hanley submitted false financial reports to the league.

A criminal complaint says that Hanley has admitted to taking only $2,000 from the league, claiming he had fallen on hard financial times.

Charges facing Hanley include theft, receiving stolen property, deceitful business practices, and misapplying funds.

Hanley, free on $75,000 bond, is scheduled to appear in court again on March 27.