Former Hockey Exec Sentenced to 2 Years for $273K Fraud

UPDATE: A former executive of the Lloydminster Minor Hockey Association (LMHA) has been sentenced to two years in a federal penitentiary for defrauding the non-profit of over $273,000. Aaron Troy Foster, aged 41, received his sentence on October 15, 2023, after pleading guilty to fraud and theft charges.

This shocking breach of trust has sent ripples through the community, impacting approximately 1,200 young players involved in the organization. Judge Clifton Purvis characterized Foster’s actions as “an egregious breach of trust” against a volunteer-run sports organization built on community goodwill.

According to court documents, between October 16, 2019, and September 27, 2024, Foster created 45 fake invoices totaling $141,140.24 using three shell companies: Buzz Off Solutions, 238 Hockey, and Heads Up Hockey. None of these entities had legitimate transactions with the LMHA.

In another scheme from December 2021 to February 2024, Foster diverted an additional $132,000 from tournament fees, team-uniform payments, and charity golf fundraisers. He executed up to 80 fraudulent transactions, depositing e-transfers meant for the association into his personal accounts, resulting in a total loss of $273,140.24.

Judge Purvis emphasized the long-lasting emotional impact of Foster’s actions, reading from a victim-impact statement that described the crime as “not just about stolen money – it’s about stolen trust, stolen integrity, and stolen confidence.” The judge noted, “The irony couldn’t be greater … Mr. Foster had kids in this organization. He’s stealing from his own kids.”

Foster repaid the full amount before sentencing by selling his family home, which left his wife and three children to seek shelter with relatives. While prosecutor Jordan Kerr sought a two-year term, arguing that restitution should not lessen the sentence, Foster’s defense attorney Dan Chivers requested just one year, citing his clean record and remorse.

In a tearful address to the court, Foster expressed deep regret, stating, “Truly sorry, I am, for the harm I caused, the trust I broke and the pain I brought upon my family and community.” He pledged to spend the rest of his life making amends.

Despite the restitution and Foster’s remorse, Judge Purvis highlighted the need for a strong deterrent against such breaches of trust, stating, “This breach of trust is shocking and a strong message needs to be sent to others in trust positions not to abuse their trust and steal.”

The LMHA has not yet commented on the case but is expected to release a public statement soon. As this story develops, community members are left grappling with the implications of Foster’s betrayal and what it means for the future of local youth sports.

Stay tuned for updates on this developing story as it continues to unfold.