The former chief executive of a camp for children with serious medical conditions, co-founded by the late actor Paul Newman, has been charged with 15 felonies for allegedly embezzling more than $5 million.
Charges Filed Against Former CEO
Christopher L. Butler, 49, from Porter Ranch, California, is expected to be arraigned in a Los Angeles court. He stands accused of stealing funds from The Painted Turtle, a camp within Newman's "SeriousFun Children's Network" that provides free programmes for youngsters with chronic or life-threatening illnesses.
Prosecutors allege the embezzlement occurred over a seven-year period while Butler worked for the charity, from 2018 until the summer of 2025. The total amount allegedly taken is approximately $5.2 million.
"An Affront to Our Deepest Values"
Los Angeles County District Attorney Nathan J. Hochman strongly condemned the alleged crimes in a news release. "Abusing a position of power to steal funds from a camp dedicated to helping children with serious medical conditions is an affront to both the law and our deepest values," Hochman stated.
He added a clear warning: "My message is crystal clear: If you steal from the most vulnerable members of our community or the organisations that serve them, this office will use every tool the law allows to hold you fully accountable."
How the Alleged Fraud Unfolded
According to the criminal complaint, Butler served as both CEO and, for a time, as the organisation's controller. Prosecutors claim he embezzled hundreds of thousands of dollars annually and attempted to conceal the alleged crimes by modifying or deleting computer records.
The scheme was reportedly uncovered in August 2025 when a newly appointed controller discovered "irregularities" in the camp's financial records. The Painted Turtle, located in Lake Hughes, California, relies entirely on donations to offer its free programmes, which allow children to enjoy camp activities with peers facing similar health challenges.
A phone number for Butler could not be located for comment. A public defender who briefly represented him during an initial court appearance declined to comment, as she is no longer handling the case. Officials at The Painted Turtle did not immediately respond to a request for comment.
If convicted on all charges, Butler faces a potential prison sentence of more than 18 years. His arraignment is scheduled for Thursday.
