A former executive director of the White Mountain Trail Collective has admitted to embezzling funds from the non-profit organization, according to an announcement from U.S. Attorney Erin Creegan.
Melanie Luce, 48, pleaded guilty to one count of embezzlement from an organization receiving federal funds. Court documents and statements revealed that Luce led the White Mountain Trail Collective between 2019 and 2021. The organization, which supports trail systems in the White Mountains, received funding partly through contributions from the U.S. Department of Agriculture’s Forest Service.
Luce used several methods to misappropriate funds. She made unauthorized bank transfers to herself exceeding her approved salary, obtained and used a corporate credit card without authorization for personal expenses and for transferring money to a web services company she owned, and secured a loan using a forged corporate resolution. In total, she embezzled about $91,000 directly from the Trail Collective and caused additional losses—approximately $58,000 to the bank that issued the credit card and $44,000 to the lender who provided the loan.
As part of her plea agreement, Luce has agreed to pay restitution to those affected by her actions.
“The charges carry a maximum possible sentence of 10 years imprisonment. Sentences are imposed by a federal district court judge based upon the U.S. Sentencing Guidelines and statutes which govern the determination of a sentence in a criminal case,” according to information released by authorities. Sentencing is scheduled for March 23, 2026.
The United States Department of Agriculture Office of Inspector General led the investigation into this matter. Assistant U.S. Attorney Charles L. Rombeau is prosecuting the case.
