Former North Canton booster pleads guilty in missing funds case

Trisha Lynn Smith (L) with her representation at a July 17 initial court appearance. (Photo: extract from b-roll/WKYC 3)

CANTON, Ohio — A former booster club member associated with two organizations received a sentence in Stark County Common Pleas Court for her involvement in the disappearance of approximately $70,000 in funds spanning from May 4, 2023, through December 31, 2025.

Trisha Lynn Smith of North Canton pleaded guilty to charges of telecommunications fraud, misuse of credit cards, grand theft, and theft.

The allegations arise from funds discovered to be missing from both the Lady Vikings Basketball Booster Club and the North Canton Cheerleading Parent Association, organizations in which she held the positions of treasurer and youth director.

Based on court filings, she entered a guilty plea during her October 13 appearance before Stark County Common Pleas Judge Taryn Heath.

As part of the guilty plea agreement, the defendant was required to make restitution payments, complete a 30-day sentence in the Stark County Jail, and fulfill three years of probation. The Canton Repository reported that she satisfied nearly all restitution obligations, distributing over $6,000 to each organization she had overseen or participated in, while also entering into a structured payment plan arrangement.

The booster clubs function independently, operating without direct oversight or administrative involvement from the North Canton City School District.

Trisha Smith was represented by Aaron Schwartz of the Patituce & Associates Law Firm.