QUICK SUMMARY
Former Atlanta Hawks executive Lester T. Jones Jr. faces one count of wire fraud for allegedly embezzling over $3.8 million from the NBA team. Court documents reveal he submitted fraudulent reimbursement requests and misused corporate credit cards to fund luxury travel and personal expenses from 2017 to June 2025. If convicted, Jones could face up to 20 years in federal prison.
Lester T. Jones Jr., the former senior vice president of finance for the Atlanta Hawks, has been charged with one count of wire fraud, accused of embezzling over $3.8 million from the NBA team. Federal court records indicate that from 2017 through June 2025, Jones exploited his access to the Hawks' financial systems to submit fraudulent reimbursement requests and conceal unauthorized corporate credit card charges. His lavish purchases included trips to exotic locations and high-end merchandise, such as jewelry and luxury brand items. One striking example involves a nearly $230,000 reimbursement he allegedly fabricated for a hotel stay at the Wynn Las Vegas. U.S. District Judge J.P. Boulee has paused the Speedy Trial Act deadlines, allowing Jones fifteen days to decide on his plea. The court has yet to reveal whether other Hawks employees were involved or if any misused funds have been recovered. If convicted, Jones could face a lengthy prison sentence and forfeiture of any proceeds from his alleged crimes. The case is being prosecuted by the U.S. Attorney's Office for the Northern District of Georgia.