A former executive director of the White Mountain Trail Collective has admitted to embezzling funds from the non-profit organization, according to an announcement by U.S. Attorney Erin Creegan.
Melanie Luce, 48, pleaded guilty to one count of embezzlement from an organization that receives federal funding. Court documents and statements indicate that Luce held her position at the White Mountain Trail Collective between 2019 and 2021. The organization received part of its funding from the U.S. Department of Agriculture’s Forest Service and was focused on supporting trail systems in the White Mountains.
Prosecutors said Luce diverted funds through unauthorized bank transfers exceeding her approved salary, used an unauthorized corporate credit card for personal expenses and to transfer money to a web services company she owned, and obtained a loan using a forged corporate resolution. In total, Luce embezzled about $91,000 directly from the Collective. Her actions also led to losses of roughly $58,000 for the bank that issued the credit card and $44,000 for the lender who provided the loan.
As part of her plea agreement, Luce will pay restitution to all affected parties.
The charge carries a maximum sentence of up to ten years in prison. Sentencing is scheduled for March 23, 2026. Federal sentencing guidelines and statutes will determine any penalties imposed by the district court judge.
The United States Department of Agriculture’s Office of Inspector General led the investigation into this case. Assistant U.S. Attorney Charles L. Rombeau is prosecuting.
