By Greg Argos

ASTON, Pa (CBS) -- Residents are shocked in Delaware County as they learned that the former treasurer of the athletic association was allegedly stealing thousands. Police say James Porter made hundreds of purchases using the association's debit card for things like men's clothing and even cash withdraws to the tune of more than $50,000.

The Aston Athletic Association's mascot is the bandit and unfortunately, Aston police say the organization's former treasurer may have turned into a real life example of just that.

"This has been a yearlong investigation to get to the bottom of this, and they are some pretty significant felony charges," says detective Joseph Nardone.
James Porter remained silent, cuffs on his wrists, as he entered Aston District Court on Friday.

According to the criminal complaint, Porter siphoned more than $50,000 from the association's account by opening up an unauthorized debit card. He allegedly swiped it more than 250 times, buying electronics, renting cars, and purchasing airline tickets, even getting a window tint job for a vehicle.

"Those transactions were not authorized by the association," Nardone said.

Initially police reports show the board of directors tried to handle the incident internally, offering Porter 30 days to pay back $45,000 and step down from coaching. He paid the cash, but refused to stop coaching, and that's when police were called.

"Almost every child goes through the Aston AA. They have softball. They have football. They have basketball, so there is a lot of interest in this case as well," Nardone stated.

Porter faces multiple felonies including theft by deception and receiving stolen property. He's out on $50,000 unsecured bond.