A former staff member of the Jaguars is alleged to have embezzled over $22 million from the team.
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An ex-employee of the Jacksonville Jaguars is accused of embezzling more than $22 million from the team between 2019 and 2023, exploiting the virtual credit card program. The funds were allegedly used to purchase various items, including two vehicles, a condominium, and a designer watch valued at over $95,000. Some of the money was also purportedly used for cryptocurrency investments and online gambling.
The accused, Amit Patel, who worked for the Jaguars from 2018 to February 2023, was named in court documents filed in U.S. District Court in Jacksonville, Fla. Although the team was referred to as “Business A” in the filing, the Jaguars confirmed they were the victim of Patel’s alleged crimes.
Patel, who held positions as a coordinator of financial planning and analysis and later as a manager in the same department, was terminated in February 2023. His role included overseeing the club’s virtual credit card program.
According to court documents, Patel manipulated the program to carry out fraudulent transactions, concealing them by replicating legitimate recurring transactions and fabricating others. The misappropriated funds were allegedly used for various personal expenses, from gambling and real estate to luxury items and travel.
The team, acknowledging Patel’s termination, cooperated with the FBI and the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the Middle District of Florida during the investigation. The charges assert that Patel, a former manager of financial planning and analysis, misused his trusted position for personal gain.
The team conducted an independent review, concluding that no other employees were involved or aware of the fraudulent activities. Patel faces charges of wire fraud and illegal monetary transactions, and if convicted, he may have to forfeit assets equivalent to the embezzled amount. Patel’s attorney filed a waiver of indictment, consenting to a proceeding by information instead of indictment.
