Two Florida Men Indicted for Alleged $100 Million Fraud Against Nonprofit for Special Needs Trusts
Clearwater, Florida — In a shocking case that has reverberated through communities dedicated to supporting individuals with disabilities, federal authorities have indicted two men in connection with a scheme to misappropriate over $100 million from a nonprofit organization aimed at managing funds for people with special needs.
Charges and Indictment Details
Leo J. Govoni, 67, of Clearwater, and John Witeck, 60, from Tampa, face multiple felony charges, including mail fraud, wire fraud, and conspiracy to commit money laundering. If found guilty on all counts, both men could potentially spend decades behind bars.
The unsettling allegations came to light when the Center for Special Needs Trust Administration, which Govoni co-founded 25 years ago, filed for bankruptcy in 2024. The nonprofit was responsible for managing more than 2,000 accounts, holding approximately $200 million on behalf of clients. However, it was revealed that over $100 million was missing from trust accounts designed to safeguard the financial resources of vulnerable populations.
A Betrayal of Trust
According to court documents, the two men allegedly exploited the nonprofit as a personal "slush fund." Prosecutors maintain that Govoni and Witeck engaged in a series of complex financial transactions aimed at concealing their illicit activities. They purportedly sent fraudulent account statements with inflated balances to clients and their families, further eroding the trust that is crucial in such sensitive dealings.
In the indictment, it is alleged that Govoni funded an extravagant lifestyle with the misappropriated funds, which included traveling on private jets and enjoying luxury experiences, from Tampa Bay Buccaneers games to high-profile events like the Kentucky Derby.
Community Impact and Response
U.S. Attorney Gregory Kehoe stressed the seriousness of the fraud, calling it "unfathomable," and highlighting the broader implications of the scheme on families reliant on the organization. Jose Perez, assistant director of the FBI’s Criminal Investigative Division, noted that the accused had not only drained the organization’s resources but had also betrayed the trust of vulnerable families.
The investigation has involved multiple federal agencies, including the FBI, IRS, and the Social Security Administration, showcasing a concerted effort to address the criminal misconduct.
Legal Representation Status
As of now, no attorneys are listed in court documents to represent Govoni or Witeck. Two lawyers associated with Govoni’s separate bankruptcy case did not immediately respond to inquiries, leaving questions about their defense strategies lingering in the public discourse.
This case continues to develop as authorities gather more evidence and further details emerge. Updates will be provided as more information becomes available.
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