The former quartermaster of a central Ohio Veterans of Foreign Wars (VFW) post has been sentenced to repay over $35,000 after being found guilty of theft. The announcement was made by Ohio Attorney General Dave Yost and Union County Prosecutor Dave Phillips.
“Today is a win for veterans and anyone else who relies on the integrity of Ohio charities,” said Yost. “We remain committed to serving those who serve, and this case sends a clear message: Those who exploit veterans for personal gain will face the full consequences of their actions.”
Guy A. Andonian was involved in a scheme that resulted in $35,007.30 being stolen from VFW Post 4044’s charitable accounts between October 2017 and September 2019, according to the grand jury’s indictment.
Investigators discovered that checks labeled with notes such as “help veterans in need” were issued from the VFW post’s accounts and cashed by accomplices in Union County. The investigation into these activities is ongoing.
Andonian admitted guilt to telecommunications fraud (F3) and received his sentence on Wednesday at the Union County Common Pleas Court. He must pay restitution fully and will be under community control for five years. Additionally, he is prohibited from acting as a financial power of attorney or holding any fiduciary role.
The Charitable Law Section handled both the investigation and prosecution after Phillips’ office appointed Yost’s office as special prosecutor for this case.
Ohio residents are encouraged to report any suspected misuse of charitable funds or fraudulent fundraising activities by contacting the Ohio Attorney General’s Office at 800-282-0515 or visiting charitable.ohioago.gov.
