Former Atlanta Hawks Finance Executive Sentenced for Embezzlement
Authorities have confirmed that Lester T. Jones Jr., a former finance executive for the Atlanta Hawks, received a prison sentence of three years and five months. Jones was found guilty of embezzling roughly $3.7 million from the team. The fraudulent activities involved fake expense reimbursements and improper use of corporate credit cards.
According to federal prosecutors, Jones utilized the funds for personal pleasures including travel, luxury clothing, jewelry, vehicle expenses, and tickets for concerts and sporting events. He admitted to the wire fraud charge last December.
Jones, aged 46, was part of the Hawks’ accounting and finance team from March 2016 to June 2025. As of August 2021, he served as the senior vice president for finance, overseeing the company’s corporate credit card account with American Express and the electronic expense reimbursement system.
“Jones turned his dream job as a high-ranking executive for the Atlanta Hawks into an opportunity to steal the team’s funds, purchasing luxury apparel, jewelry, watches, and trips for himself,” stated U.S. Attorney Theodore S. Hertzberg, via a Department of Justice release.
He further commented, “But, for Jones and others who abuse their employers’ trust to embezzle substantial funds, the gravy train’s final destination is federal prison.” The Atlanta Hawks have opted not to comment on the sentencing.
Marlo Graham, a special agent based in Atlanta, highlighted the implications of the case: “Jones’ case underscores the significant damage that can be caused by insider threats within an organization.” She added, “Jones abused his authority and access to embezzle millions, but schemes like this are not immune from detection. The FBI remains committed to investigating and disrupting financial crimes at every level.”
Prosecutors revealed that Jones orchestrated the embezzlement by filing numerous fraudulent expense reimbursement requests, which led to the Hawks reimbursing him for non-existent business expenses. Additionally, he charged personal costs to corporate credit cards.
The personal expenses accumulated by Jones included approximately $80,000 on travel to the Bahamas and Thailand, $99,800 on clothing at Saks Fifth Avenue, a $115,795.01 diamond ring, $21,888.90 on Omega watches, and over $160,000 in tickets for concerts and other events.
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