Newark, N.J. – Essex County Prosecutor Theodore N. Stephens II announced today that a Cedar Grove man has been charged with stealing more than $244,000 from a charity that provides support for adults with disabilities. Stephen Ferguson, 65, of Cedar Grove, is charged with one count of second-degree theft by unlawful taking and one count…

What happened

Newark, N.J. – Essex County Prosecutor Theodore N.

Stephen Ferguson, 65, of Cedar Grove, is charged with one count of second-degree theft by unlawful taking and one count of second-degree misapplication of entrusted funds.

Key details

Ferguson served as treasurer of the organization from June 2023 through March 2025.

An internal audit determined Ferguson allegedly made multiple unauthorized withdrawals from the organization’s accounts for his personal use, totaling more than $244,000.

Stephens II.

These allegations are merely accusations.

All defendants are presumed innocent unless and until they enter a guilty plea or are found guilty beyond a reasonable doubt in a court of law.

The public is encouraged to report any information related to criminal activity by contacting the Essex County Prosecutor’s Office Tips Line at 1-877-TIPS-4EC or 1-877-847-7432.

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Background and context

The nonprofit was established by some of the families of residents living at the Association for Hunterdon Development Center in Clinton.

The organization was created to provide additional support and resources for adults with disabilities residing at the state-run facility.

What officials said

This case alleges a serious breach of trust involving funds intended to support vulnerable members of our community.

Thefts from organizations such as this are akin to direct assaults against the disabled population and, as such, are extremely important to this office,” said Prosecutor Theodore N.

What happens next

Ferguson’s first court appearance is scheduled for July 27, 2026.

All calls will remain confidential.

Legal note: Charges and allegations are accusations. A defendant is presumed innocent unless proven guilty in court.

Source and attribution: Jersey Alerts reviewed the primary official release from Essex County Prosecutor and any additional sources identified above. Names, dates, figures, quotations, claims and characterizations remain attributed to their cited source unless Jersey Alerts states that they were independently confirmed.

Read the official release