⏱ 2 min read
James Appel, 58, of Annapolis, Maryland, has been charged with embezzling approximately $200,000 from a Maryland State Delegate’s campaign accounts and an Anne Arundel County community organization in 2024. Appel, who worked as a treasurer for several political candidates and organizations, allegedly stole the funds and reported them as his own assets on a loan refinance application for his yacht. The embezzlement scheme was uncovered by the FBI, and Appel now faces wire fraud and money laundering charges in Baltimore.
According to the indictment, Appel transferred $100,000 from the campaign account to his business account in May 2023, and then moved the money into his personal financial accounts in May 2024. He also embezzled an additional $100,000 from the community organization. Appel used the stolen funds to pay off part of the outstanding balance on his line of credit and to refinance a loan on his Pacific Mariner 65 Motoryacht.
The investigation was led by the FBI, with U.S. Attorney Kelly O. Hayes and Special Agent in Charge Jimmy Paul announcing the indictment. The case highlights the importance of transparency and accountability in political campaigns and community organizations.
The embezzlement scheme is a serious crime that can have significant consequences for both the individuals and organizations involved. Appel’s actions allegedly involved wire fraud and money laundering, which can carry severe penalties, including fines and imprisonment.
Related Federal Cases
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- Angela M. Blythe, Bank Fraud, Maryland 2014 · Maryland
- Olusegun Adebiyi, Wire Fraud and Aggravated Identity Theft, Maryland 2013 · Maryland
📋 Key Facts
- Crime: White Collar Crime
- Defendant: Maryland
- Location: MD
- Source: DOJ Press Release
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