Police: CT Little League Treasurer Embezzled $115K to Gamble Before Sudden Death
Posted on: September 19, 2025, 03:36h.
Last updated on: September 19, 2025, 03:36h.
- A former treasurer of a Little League chapter in Connecticut allegedly stole from the organization
- The man in question died suddenly after police believe he stole at least $165,000 from the Little League
Police in Connecticut believe a former treasurer of a Little League Baseball chapter stole $115,000 from the organization to gamble online via his FanDuel account.
Kenneth E. Grohs Jr. was a cherished, lifelong resident of Naugatuck, CT, who served almost two decades as the treasurer and a coach of Union City Little League. But before his sudden death in May 2025, police allege that Grohs embezzled at least $165,000 from the organization.
Grohs’ obituary and the Little League itself included many memorials.
It is with great regret and heavy hearts that we inform the Union City Little League community of the passing of Kenneth Grohs Jr. Kenny was more than just a board member — he was a cornerstone of our league. For over 20 years, he dedicated his time, heart, and countless hours to Union City Little League, serving as treasurer for most of that time. His commitment helped shape the league into what it is today,” the organization wrote in May 5 Facebook post.
“He will be remembered not only for his tireless service but also for the way he could always make us laugh. Whether it was a quick-witted joke or a lighthearted comment during meetings, he had a way of lifting our spirits — a gift we will deeply miss,” the Little League continued.
Less than two weeks later, however, the Little League and softball group announced that it had come across “some difficult news.” Now, police have confirmed that Grohs was allegedly behind a massive theft before he died.
Subsequent Treasurer Discovers Theft
Upon Grohs’ passing, the succeeding treasurer quickly noticed that much of the Union City Little League’s money had disappeared. CT Insider reports that police records revealed that the treasurer filed a complaint with law enforcement on May 12.
An investigation found that Grohs had transferred $115,000 from the Little League financial account he managed to his FanDuel iGaming and mobile sports betting account. He withdrew another $50,000 from the Little League account in cash at ATMs, which police determined he transacted through surveillance video.
The Little League had received a $200,000 grant from the state in October 2024. The money was allocated through the federal government’s COVID-19 American Rescue Recovery Funds program. The $200K was to help the Union City Little League continue offering its instructional leagues for girls and boys to learn softball and baseball, beginning with T-ball and progressing through major divisions.
Because Grohs was dead before his alleged theft was uncovered, county prosecutors said no charges would be filed. The CT Insider added that police found no evidence that anyone else was involved in the alleged crime.
No cause of death was made public for Grohs’ passing at the age of 57.
Unfortunate End to Seemingly Good Man
It isn’t clear if Grohs had battled a gambling addiction or if a medical event led him to act irrationally. By all accounts, his local community cherished him before he died.
His online obituary board is filled with messages of condolences to his surviving wife and children.
Kenny was an incredible man who had touched so many lives,” read one comment.
He was quite a character, funny as all get out and a real nice guy,” read another.
There are not many people like Ken. I will remember and cherish every conversation and hug I got from him,” read another.
Grohs worked at Eversource as a manager for 37 years.
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