December 11, 2023
“Luxury Shopping Spree Leads to Stunning Theft of $22M from Jacksonville Jaguars by Former Employee
A former employee of the Jacksonville Jaguars has been charged with embezzlement after spending an estimated $22 million on luxury items during a shopping spree. In a statement, the team said Rodney Howard Cross, an employee since 2006, was arrested Thursday and will face a three-count indictment.
According to the indictment, Cross, who held the role of senior accounting supervisor, used the team's credit accounts to purchase high-end watches, jewelry, pellet guns, sport memorabilia and electronics from November 2011 to April 2019. These items were paid for via the team's debit cards, checkbook, and online accounts even though Cross lacked permission to do so.
Cross is further reported to have ordered Jaguars-themed items and had them shipped to his home address. The indictment also alleges the embezzlemeent funds went towards vacations abroad and tickets to professional sporting events.
The team released a statement that read, “We were shocked and disappointed to learn of the alleged actions of one of our former employees. It is now in the hands of law enforcement and we are fully cooperating with the ongoing investigation. We remain committed to ensuring the integrity of our financial operations.”
It is not yet clear if Cross has an attorney and is expected to make an initial court appearance in the coming days to answer to the charges. The Jacksonville Jaguars have said they will do whatever is necessary to recuperate the millions taken from the organization.