Gregory Vasicek, 60, of Queens, pleaded guilty to one count of schemed to defraud in Suffolk County Court on Friday, May 12.
According to the Suffolk County District Attorney’s Office, between April and May 2022, Vasicek debited the bank account of his charity, Play4Autism, knowing the organization did not have the funds to pay for the services and property purchased. Lots of checks.
Prosecutors said businesses victimized in his scheme included a golf course and restaurant in Manorville and an amusement park in Melville.
The businesses made multiple attempts to collect payment, but Vasicek was never paid for the goods or services provided.
Investigators determined he also fraudulently solicited and collected hundreds of dollars in registration fees from donors for a golf outing he claimed would take place at Manorville Golf Course in October 2022 that never happened.
“This defendant preyed on the goodwill of Suffolk County residents and business owners under the guise of benefiting himself by helping children with autism,” Suffolk County District Attorney Raymond Tierney said in a statement.
“My office will continue to hold accountable all those who manipulate, steal and undermine the public trust.”
In court Friday, Vasicek pleaded guilty to first-degree planned felony fraud. He will return to court for sentencing on Thursday, July 6.
Vasicek founded Play4Autism in Queens in December 2011 and, according to him, has been president since then LinkedIn contour.
He is also a former professional hockey player and coach in the UK and Europe.
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