Two former Ajax soccer club employees charged with defrauding club of $650K
Durham police allege funds were transferred to various accounts between early 2023 and 2024 by the organization's former executive director and general manager.
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Two people who worked at the Ajax FC Soccer Club have been charged after allegedly defrauding more than $650,000 of league funds, Durham Regional Police said Wednesday.
Vicki Scott, 50, of Whitby, has been charged with fraud over $5,000, laundering proceeds of crime, and breach of trust. Richard Karikari, 47, of Ajax, has been charged with fraud over $5,000, possession of proceeds of crime, and breach of trust. Scott served as the club's executive director; Karikari was general manager. Neither has been affiliated with the club since 2024.
Durham Region Police Financial Crimes Unit began investigating in December 2024 after receiving reports of irregularities in the soccer club's banking transactions. The investigation, which analyzed years of financial statements, revealed that more than $650,000 of league funds were transferred to various accounts between early 2023 and 2024. Both accused were released on an undertaking—a document requiring them to attend court at a specific time and that may include conditions restricting certain activities.
The charges have not been tested in court. Karikari's LinkedIn profile lists him as general manager of the club from 2019 to 2024.
In a statement Wednesday, Ajax Soccer Club said the accused have not been involved with the organization in any capacity since 2024 and that the club has undergone significant leadership and governance changes. "The organization is operating under a new Board of Directors and executive team committed to transparency, accountability, strong governance, and responsible stewardship of the club," the statement read. The club is sanctioned under Ontario Soccer, Canada Soccer, and the Durham Region Soccer Association.
Durham Region Soccer Association immediately suspended Richard Karikari from all soccer activities in the district following news of the charges. DRSA said it has no knowledge of Vicki Scott's current involvement in soccer in the district. Karikari is listed as vice president of FC Durham Academy, which offers youth recreational and competitive soccer programs.
Were any safeguards in place to prevent unauthorized fund transfers, and if so, how were they bypassed?
How long did the alleged fraud continue before it was discovered?
We'll update this story as answers emerge.
At a glance
How much money was allegedly defrauded from Ajax FC Soccer Club?
More than $650,000 of league funds were allegedly transferred to various accounts between early 2023 and 2024.
Who has been charged in the Ajax FC Soccer Club fraud case?
Vicki Scott, 50, of Whitby, the club's former executive director, and Richard Karikari, 47, of Ajax, the former general manager. Scott faces charges of fraud over $5,000, laundering proceeds of crime, and breach of trust. Karikari faces charges of fraud over $5,000, possession of proceeds of crime, and breach of trust.
When did Durham Regional Police begin investigating the fraud allegations?
Durham Region Police Financial Crimes Unit began investigating in December 2024 after receiving reports of irregularities in the soccer club's banking transactions.
