By: Richard L. Smith
A Cedar Grove man is facing criminal charges after authorities alleged he stole more than $244,000 from a nonprofit organization dedicated to supporting adults with disabilities.
According to a statement released by the Essex County Prosecutor’s Office, Stephen Ferguson, 65, has been charged with second-degree theft by unlawful taking and second-degree misapplication of entrusted funds.
Investigators said Ferguson served as treasurer of the nonprofit from June 2023 through March 2025.
The organization was established by family members of residents at the Association for Hunterdon Development Center in Clinton to provide additional resources and support for adults with disabilities living at the state-operated facility.
Authorities said an internal audit uncovered multiple unauthorized withdrawals allegedly made by Ferguson from the organization’s bank accounts for his personal use.
The total amount taken is estimated to exceed $244,000.
Essex County Prosecutor Theodore N. Stephens II described the allegations as a significant violation of public trust.
“This case alleges a serious breach of trust involving funds intended to support vulnerable members of our community.
Thefts from organizations such as this are akin to direct assaults against the disabled population and, as such, are extremely important to this office,” Stephens said.
Ferguson is scheduled to make his initial court appearance on July 27, 2026.