It seems someone’s sleigh has gone off course!
The creator behind SantaCon, a festive bar hopping event, found himself in hot water on Wednesday after being charged with wire fraud. Allegations claim he misappropriated a substantial sum designated for charitable causes.
According to a federal indictment, Stefan Pildes turned SantaCon into a personal piggy bank, allegedly splurging on lavish trips to Hawaii and Las Vegas, indulgent dining experiences, and a luxury vehicle.
The indictment, unveiled in a New York court, further alleges that Pildes used about $124,000 for a posh Manhattan apartment lease and funneled another $100,000 towards a chic resort in Costa Rica.
“While Pildes marketed SantaCon as a charity-driven event, he instead orchestrated a scheme for personal gain,” stated U.S. Attorney Jay Clayton in a press release.
“He exploited the holiday generosity of New Yorkers to bankroll his own lifestyle, big and small expenses alike. Regardless of the facade, fraud remains fraud. We are steadfast in safeguarding New Yorkers from those who misuse their goodwill and enthusiasm.”
Pildes “donated only a small fraction” of the $2.7 million raised from SantaCon to charity, according to the indictment against him.
