Gregory Vasicek, a 60-year-old man from Queens, has pleaded guilty to a scheme to defraud charge in Suffolk County Court. The charges stem from Vasicek’s actions between April and May of 2022, during which he wrote several checks from the bank account of his charity, Play4Autism. Despite being aware that the organization did not have the funds to cover the purchases, Vasicek continued to write checks, leading several companies to fall victim to his scheme.
Among the businesses affected were a golf course and restaurant in Manorville, and an amusement park in Melville. Despite their repeated attempts to collect payment, Vasicek failed to pay for the goods or services provided. Investigators also discovered that Vasicek fraudulently solicited and received hundreds of dollars in registration fees from donors for a golf outing that he claimed would take place at the Manorville golf course in October 2022, but which never occurred.
“This defendant preyed upon the goodwill of Suffolk County residents and business owners under the guise of helping autistic children to benefit himself,” said Suffolk County District Attorney Raymond Tierney in a statement. “My office will continue to hold accountable all those who manipulate, steal, and violate the public’s trust.”
Vasicek pleaded guilty to first-degree scheme to defraud, a felony charge, on May 12. He is scheduled to appear in court for sentencing on July 6. Vasicek founded the Queens-based charity Play4Autism in December 2011 and served as its president since then. He is also a former professional hockey player and coach in Great Britain and Europe.
The charges against Vasicek highlight the importance of transparency and accountability in the management of charitable organizations. While such organizations are typically established to provide aid and support to those in need, individuals must also be wary of fraudulent actors who may misuse donations for their own gain. By holding those who violate public trust accountable, authorities can help ensure that the goodwill and generosity of donors are used for their intended purposes.
