Former Hoboken Director of Health and Human Services Leo Pellegrini pleaded guilty to embezzlement and filing a false tax return Thursday in federal court.
Pellegrini took money intended for a city soccer program and submitted fraudulent invoices that directed city funds to his own private soccer club, according to court documents. That income was not reflected in his tax returns.
The guilty plea took place in Newark before U.S. District Judge Michael E. Farbiarz.
Pellegrini resigned from his city role in the spring of 2023 after leading the health department during the COVID-19 pandemic. He had worked for the city for 14 years.
Sentencing is scheduled for April 29, 2025.
“Today, justice has been served, as no government employee is ever above the law,” Hoboken Mayor Ravi Bhalla said in a statement. “I extend my sincere appreciation to the FBI, U.S. Attorney’s Office, and all law enforcement personnel for their diligent work during the course of the investigation.”
The count of embezzlement carries a maximum penalty of 10 years in prison and a maximum fine of $250,000 fine, or twice the gross gain to the defendant or loss to the victim, whichever is greatest.
The count of filing a false tax return carries a maximum penalty of three years in prison and a maximum fine of $250,000 fine, or twice the gross gain to the defendant or loss to the victim, whichever is greatest.