Attorney For Accused Stamford Softball President Issues Statement

STAMFORD, CT — The Stamford-based attorney representing embattled Stamford softball President Charles R. Pia, says that his client should not be subjected to arrests on a near weekly basis, which may be violating his civil rights.

In a statement to Patch, Stephan Seeger says that he does not believe that the latest charge against Pia, for third-degree larceny, concerning catering fees, was necessary and could possibly be resolved in civil court.

Late last month, Pia was arrested in connection with the alleged embezzlement of $1,500 from the Stamford Babe Ruth Girls Softball league, charges that Seeger says his client will fight against.

"Again we see allegations which are presumptive," Seeger said of the charges in the catering mishap. "Apparently the allegations date back a couple of years ago to a catering bill related to the league. My understanding is that there was a dispute over the amount of food sent by Grade A Markets far exceeded the Order requirements. It happen. It wasn’t two or three extra sandwiches; it was a significant number of trays that were sent back, and Mr. Pia placed the matter under dispute."

Stamford police said that Pia "allegedly requested a price reduction as the event was for the girls softball league. The grocery store reduced the catering price by $2,000.00 and charged the league $4,000.00," but Pia never paid the bill.

Seeger continued, "Sounds much more much more like a civil matter to me, but we continue to investigate the exact nature of the transactions. Rarely do you see these types of 'charge as you go' scenarios, but its not the volume of charges laid that counts, its the quality of the evidence that supports them.

"We will take a close look at the warrant and defend our position to be sure, but at this juncture the allegations appear to be somewhat misplaced. If the pattern of weekly charges continues in this manner, forcing Mr. Pia to post bond after bond however, we will do whatever necessary to avail him of the full spectrum of his civil rights. Something is irregular here, and as I've said before, emotions run high in the politics of youth sports and I think everybody knows that."

Pia is scheduled to appear in Stamford Superior Court on April 18 in connection with the latest charge.