Las Vegas, NV – Former Metropolitan Police Department Foundation director Thomas Kovach pleaded not guilty on Thursday to 19 felony theft charges. Kovach is accused of misappropriating nearly $350,000 from the foundation.

The charges allege that Kovach diverted funds from the foundation to Project REAL, a non-profit organization where he also served as executive director. He is accused of using the funds for personal expenses, including a salary payment of over $182,000.

Kovach’s attorney, Paola Armeni, maintains that her client did not intend to commit a crime and that the charges are a misunderstanding. She emphasized that the defense team will vigorously defend Kovach against these allegations.

The Metropolitan Police Department Foundation supports various initiatives within the department, including community engagement, officer training, and the acquisition of essential equipment and technology. Kovach allegedly misused the foundation’s funds without proper authorization from the board.

The case against Kovach is ongoing, with his trial scheduled to begin on May 5th, 2025.

Source: Review Journal