Embezzlement Allegations Against Saint John Bosco Coach - Money Stolen for Tuition Payments
St. John Bosco High School in Bellflower, California, is making headlines for two significant developments. On one hand, the school is preparing for the dedication of the Panish Family Stadium and the 2017 Braves Gala, while on the other, a lawsuit has been filed against its head football coach, Jason Negro, and the Salesian Order.
The lawsuit alleges that Wickstrom, Marcaurel, and Barraza, former employees of St. John Bosco, were wrongfully terminated and are seeking compensation, reinstatement, and unspecified damages for emotional distress. The plaintiffs claim that the Salesian Order terminated them to protect the football program and its head coach from scrutiny or oversight of illegal conduct.
The lawsuit further alleges that Jason Negro, head coach of the powerhouse football program since 2010, handled all financial dealings for the team exclusively in cash, without proper oversight or record-keeping by the school. This could potentially violate California Interscholastic Federation bylaws, which prohibit offering financial assistance for tuition based on athletic ability.
However, it is important to note that there is no public record or credible news source indicating that Jason Negro has been found guilty of embezzling school funds or providing tuition assistance to top players in cash.
In a statement, Negro has acknowledged the lawsuit and an independent investigation that has already been conducted. He asserted that all facts will come to light in court.
Meanwhile, St. John Bosco High School is moving forward with other initiatives. Father Nick Reina, Director of the school, will bless the Panish Family Stadium during its dedication, which will include opening remarks. The school has also partnered with The Wharton School of Business to launch an entrepreneurship pathway, aiming to provide business and finance education for college-bound students.
The 2017 Braves Gala, scheduled for May 20 on the school's campus grounds, will also take place as planned. Joseph Sanchez III '70 will receive the School's Distinguished Alumnus Award at the event.
The controversy surrounding St. John Bosco High School serves as a reminder of the importance of transparency and accountability in all aspects of an institution, particularly in matters related to athletics and finance. As the legal proceedings unfold, the school and its community will continue to navigate these challenging times.
- The St. John Bosco High School community is also focusing on other initiatives, such as the launch of an entrepreneurship pathway in partnership with The Wharton School of Business, aimed at providing business and finance education for college-bound students.
- Despite the ongoing legal dispute involving the school's head football coach, Jason Negro, and former employees, the 2017 Braves Gala is still scheduled to take place on May 20, with Joseph Sanchez III '70 set to receive the School's Distinguished Alumnus Award.
- Besides local sports events like the dedication of the Panish Family Stadium, the school is also engaged in community news, partnering with esteemed educational institutions like The Wharton School of Business to foster education and self-development.
