Full Notification

In October of 2019, the Simi Valley Police Department was made aware of an alleged embezzlement involving the treasurer of a local youth sports club. Through various investigative leads and the execution of several search warrants, It was discovered that Jeffrey Melnick (52 yrs) of Simi Valley had embezzled a large sum of money and goods from the Simi Valley Youth Baseball League.

Melnick had served as a board member and treasurer for the Simi Youth Baseball League for the past 6 years (Approximate). During that time, he was entrusted to manage the finances for the league. During his time as treasurer, Melnick utilized league monies for his own personal gain. Melnick purchased items such as car parts, electronics, personal baseball supplies, personal items from Costco, expensive dinners, and many other various items that had nothing to do with league business.

During this investigation, it was determined that Mr. Melnick embezzled over $100,000 from the league over the past three years and it is unknown if the criminal behavior extended prior to this investigative period.

On January 9, 2020, the Simi Valley Detective Bureau executed a search warrant and arrest warrant related to this investigation. The search warrant was for Mr. Melnick’s residence and it resulted in the recovery of dozens of stolen / embezzled items. With the assistance to the Ventura County Auto Theft Taskforce, Melnick was arrested in the City of Thousand Oaks and was booked at the East Valley Sheriff Station. Melnick was charged with 6 counts of grand theft (487 (a) PC) and his bail was set at $10,000.

Should you have any information related to this investigation, please contact Detective Josh Lorencz at (805) 583-6224