The Church of St. Leo the Great in Lincroft, New Jersey, has accused its former finance director of stealing more than $1.5 million in parish funds to bankroll personal expenses like cigars, vehicles, and home improvements.

According to CNA, a lawsuit filed by the church claims the former bookkeeper redirected church funds over six years to support personal spending on luxury goods and services.

Joseph Manzi, who was hired in 2014 as both bookkeeper and finance director for the parish, was fired on June 26 of this year. Shortly after his termination, the parish brought in an auditor to examine its accounts. On July 31, the audit revealed irregularities that led to a wider investigation.

The church officially filed the lawsuit against Manzi on August 8. According to legal documents, Manzi allegedly participated in what the parish called “widespread fraud and theft,” misappropriating money through a range of personal purchases and financial maneuvers.

The church claims that Manzi used its funds to purchase tickets to sporting events, pay for personal vehicles, and cover home construction projects. The lawsuit also states he spent church money on landscaping for his home, gift cards, his daughter’s wedding, taxes, and even cigars and meals.

Audit Leads to Major Financial Revelations

The church reports that the alleged misappropriation went undetected for more than six years. The filing describes Manzi’s actions as "systematic" and “dishonest,” noting that he utilized church payment systems to funnel money toward personal expenses.

Specifically, St. Leo’s accuses him of diverting funds into accounts designed to conceal wrongdoing. These accounts, the church alleges, were structured in a way that made unauthorized payments appear routine.

The total sum allegedly stolen surpasses $1.5 million, though church officials believe the actual total may be higher. According to the complaint, Manzi has not reimbursed any of the money as of the filing date.

Parish Seeks Return of Money and More

Along with monetary damages, the church’s lawsuit seeks to reclaim Manzi’s entire compensation received during his employment. The parish is also asking the court to establish a "constructive trust" over Manzi’s home in Atlantic Highlands, claiming that both the mortgage and several renovations were funded through illegal use of parish money.

The lawsuit includes a demand that Manzi surrender any remaining assets tied to the stolen funds. It argues that since these assets were purchased with misappropriated church money, they should be returned or liquidated to reimburse the parish.

The Parish also confirmed in a statement that the matter has been forwarded to local and state law enforcement agencies. This step signals the potential for future criminal proceedings depending on the conclusion of ongoing investigations.

Diocese Affirms Church's Allegations

On August 13, the Diocese of Trenton released a public statement supporting the church’s legal action. The Diocese disclosed that its internal investigation had verified enough evidence to find "a basis" for the accusations made by the Church of St. Leo the Great.

The Diocese emphasized its cooperation with law enforcement, adding that the nature of the financial misconduct required formal responses beyond just internal disciplinary efforts. While the Diocese did not suggest charges are pending, it left open the possibility that authorities may pursue further action.

The alleged scandal has sent ripples through the local community in Lincroft, where St. Leo’s serves as a major religious and community hub. Parishioners have been openly concerned about the situation, although church officials say operations continue uninterrupted while the recovery effort proceeds.

Church Vows to Strengthen Oversight

In response to the alleged embezzlement, leaders at the Church of St. Leo the Great stated they are reviewing internal financial protocols and controls. Officials are working to ensure transparency moving forward and to prevent similar issues in the future.

The church has not commented on whether any oversight mechanisms failed during Manzi’s employment. However, they acknowledge that the scale of the alleged financial misconduct suggests systemic weaknesses.

No criminal charges have been publicly announced as of yet. Law enforcement agencies investigating the case have not released detailed statements in connection with the allegations or timelines for possible prosecution.