MERCER, Pa. - A Sharpsville man who previously served as treasurer for the Mercer County Girls' Softball League has been sentenced to two years of probation after pleading guilty to theft. Brent Hanley, 55, was sentenced on June 6 by Common Pleas Court Judge Tedd Nesbit.

Hanley pleaded guilty on May 7 to one count of theft by failure to make required disposition of funds, a first-degree misdemeanor. As part of a plea agreement, several other charges, including additional theft counts, receiving stolen property, deceptive business practices, and misapplication of entrusted property, were dropped.

Authorities alleged that Hanley, while treasurer for the league from 2017 until mid-2023, diverted approximately $38,000 in league funds to his personal bank account. The funds, derived from registration fees, were intended for league operations such as promoting games and tournaments, purchasing equipment, and paying umpires. Investigators also stated that Hanley submitted false financial reports to the league.

During the initial stages of the investigation, a criminal complaint indicated Hanley admitted to taking $2,000 from the league, citing financial hardship.

In addition to his probation, Hanley is ordered to pay restitution totaling $12,437.21 to the Mercer County Girls' Softball League, along with court costs and fees. Court records show an initial payment of $2,000 toward restitution was made on June 12.

Hanley’s probation includes conditions such as adhering to a payment plan for restitution, complying with instructions from his probation officer, refraining from alcohol and illegal drug use, and submitting to random drug and alcohol tests. He is also subject to electronic monitoring or other alcohol detection devices at the discretion of his probation officer.