Church Bookkeeper Accused of Stealing $1.5M, Funding Lavish Lifestyle

A New Jersey church is accusing its former bookkeeper of stealing more than $1.5 million over the course of six years, using parish funds to bankroll personal expenses ranging from luxury vehicles to sports tickets. The Church of Saint Leo the Great in Lincroft filed a lawsuit against Joseph A. Manzi, its former director of finance, operations, and development, alleging he misused business credit cards and drained the operating account as his “personal piggy bank.” According to the complaint, Manzi charged expenses tied to his Cadillac, construction projects at his home, cigars, meals, gift cards, and even costs related to his daughter’s wedding. The Catholic Diocese of Trenton confirmed a preliminary investigation found grounds for concern, and both civil remedies and criminal investigations are underway. The Monmouth County Prosecutor’s Office has acknowledged awareness of the case but has not confirmed an active probe.