A SCOUT leader has avoided jail after taking £191,000 that was meant for expeditions, including a trip to Canada.
Robert Sidley, a team leader at Hereford and Worcester Scouts, admitted to stealing the money for his own financial gain.
The 47-year-old admitted to the single charge of fraud at Worcester Crown Court on Monday, October 19.
Sidley, of Henry Street, Worcester, was given a 32-month prison sentence, which has been suspended for two years.
He has also been ordered to carry out 220 hours of unpaid work.
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The allegations against Sidley first came to light earlier this year, with Hereford and Worcester Scouts writing to parents to say that there had been “significant theft from charity funds”, which included money that had been earmarked for a trip to Canada.
The Scouts said it “took immediate action” when concerns were first raised and that all “appropriate” refunds have now been made.
“The individual who fraudulently took funds intended for young people’s expeditions has pleaded guilty and been sentenced,” a spokesperson said.
“As soon as concerns emerged, Hereford and Worcester Scouts reported the matter to both the Police and the Charity Commission and fully supported the investigation throughout.
“When concerns became known us, we took immediate action to ensure that no young person or family was left out of pocket.
“All appropriate refunds have now been made.”