Fmr. Post Commander Indicted for Theft of $670K from Crisfield American Legion
CRISFIELD, Md. – A Somerset County grand jury has indicted a man following a Maryland State Police (MSP) investigation into the theft of more than $670,000 from Stanley Cochrane Post 16 of American Legion.
On Friday, Jan. 16, 56-year-old Donald Lee Waters Jr. of Salisbury was indicted on charges including theft over $100,000, theft scheme, and related financial offenses. His first appearance before the Circuit Court for Somerset County is scheduled for Feb. 11, according to court documents.
Authorities say the indictment follows an investigation conducted by the MSP Criminal Enforcement Division – Eastern Region into the theft of proceeds from slot machines, which were considered licensed charitable operations at Post 16. Their preliminary investigation revealed that Waters stole approximately $670,394 in charitable proceeds between mid-2021 and Aug. 2024. Waters was a Post Commander at the legion, but Post 16 leaders say he has since been suspended from his role and barred from the post.
“While the judicial process must be allowed to proceed, we recognize the concern this news may cause for our members, donors, and community partners,” said Post 16 in a statement. “We are deeply disappointed by the alleged theft and the harm it has caused to our fraternal mission of supporting our veterans and our ability to support local nonprofits such as the fire department, the ambulance squad, and the chamber of commerce. The trust placed in our Post and the resources entrusted to us to serve veterans and our community are paramount.”
The legion also stated that the Post’s Executive Committee is taking steps to improve financial controls and oversight measures to help ensure that funds are protected in the future.
“From the outset, Post 16 has cooperated and will continue to cooperate fully with the MSP, the Somerset County State’s Attorney’s Office, the Maryland Comptroller, and the American Legion Department of Maryland,” the statement continued. “We are grateful for their professionalism and guidance throughout this matter.”
MSP says their investigation involved numerous search warrants, multiple court orders and subpoenas, and extensive financial analysis. Their investigation is ongoing.
“American Legion Post 16 remains open, operational, and steadfast in its commitment to serving veterans, their families, and the broader community. We will continue our programs and community partnerships, and we appreciate the continued support of our members, donors, and neighbors as we move forward,” Post 16 concluded.
