A 51‑year‑old man who ran a youth baseball program in Omaha has been charged with felony theft by deception after prosecutors say he pocketed nearly $19,000 that families had paid to enroll their children in the Omaha Nighthawks program.
Sombath Leng, also known as Sam Leng, allegedly sent an email in early August announcing the abrupt cancellation of the program before any practices could begin, leaving the 30 participating families without refunds. Investigators allege he subsequently gambled away the money that had been earmarked for equipment, uniforms and field rentals.
A community’s response
The scandal might have ended the season for the young athletes, but the community rallied. A GoFundMe campaign and several local sponsors stepped in to reimburse the stolen amount, allowing the players to continue under a new moniker — Omaha Phoenix.
Fourteen‑year‑old participants, who had already signed up and begun training, were able to finish the season, their futures secured by the restored funds and a wave of public support that underscored the resilience of grassroots sports.
Leng now faces a felony count that carries a potential prison sentence, and the case has been forwarded to the Douglas County Attorney’s Office for prosecution. The incident serves as a reminder of the importance of financial oversight in youth sports programs.