Former treasurer charged with stealing more than $244,000 from Hunterdon County nonprofit

NEWARK, N.J. (Essex County) — A Cedar Grove man has been charged with allegedly stealing more than $244,000 from a Hunterdon County nonprofit that provides support for adults with disabilities, Essex County Prosecutor Theodore N. Stephens II announced Friday.

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

According to prosecutors, Ferguson served as treasurer of the nonprofit from June 2023 through March 2025. The organization was established by family members of residents living at the Association for Hunterdon Development Center in Union Township to provide additional support and resources for adults with disabilities residing at the state-run facility.

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

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