Former Pasco Chamber Leader Pleads Guilty To Taking Funds

LUTZ, FL — The former president of the Central Pasco Chamber of Commerce, David Gainer Jr., 50, of Lutz has pleaded guilty to three counts of wire fraud.

Gainer faces a maximum penalty of 20 years in federal prison on each count. A sentencing date has not yet been set, said United States Middle District Attorney Roger B. Handberg.

According to the plea agreement, Gainer served as president and treasurer of the Central Pasco Chamber of Commerce, an organization comprised of area merchants who paid membership dues and other funds to the chamber to promote their businesses in the community.

As such, Gainer had access to bank account information used by the chamber to maintain its operations as well as to its funds and deposits, according to the plea agreement.

The U.S. attorney said Gainer defrauded the chamber of funds by accessing the chamber's bank accounts, making unauthorized withdrawals of at least $104,689 that he used to pay personal bills and debts.

According to the plea agreement, Gainer agreed to pay back the funds.

The case was investigated by the United States Secret Service and the Pasco Sheriff’s Office. It is being prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Maria Guzman.