A former North Carolina charity president sentenced to prison last week pleaded guilty to embezzling more than $400,000 in donor funds over a two year period. The case has left a small Lincoln County nonprofit that supported youth activities without its longtime leader.
Nonprofit funds diverted to online betting over two years
Kevin Joe Turner, 51, served as president of L-Town Charities, a Lincolnton nonprofit that helped parents cover costs for children in activities such as dance and youth sports. According to the Lincoln County Sheriff’s Office, Turner used the organization’s bank card to place more than $400,000 in online sports bets and make other unauthorized purchases over two years.
Investigators said Turner was originally arrested in March 2025 on charges connected to the scheme. He entered a guilty plea on June 30 to three felony counts of embezzlement, each involving more than $100,000.
How the charity president sentenced case unfolded in court
Lincoln County Superior Court sentenced Turner to between 58 and 82 months in the custody of the North Carolina Department of Adult Correction. Court records also show a civil court will separately handle $500,000 in restitution tied to the case.
Turner was recommended for work release during his sentence, and any wages he earns are expected to go toward restitution. Investigators said they found no evidence that other board members or volunteers were involved in the scheme.
For donors weighing how closely to track a nonprofit’s finances, reviewing a charity’s governance structure before giving can help flag warning signs early. Other regional nonprofits have faced similar scrutiny over financial transparency and accountability, underscoring how single point financial control can leave small charities vulnerable.
L-Town Charities primarily raised money by organizing concession stands at local concerts and sporting events. Proceeds were meant to support community programs and offset costs for families with children in extracurricular activities.
The case adds to a string of recent embezzlement cases involving small nonprofit leaders nationwide. Advocacy groups say stronger board oversight and separated financial duties remain among the most effective ways to prevent similar losses at community based charities going forward.