The Office of the State Attorney is investigating “financial discrepancies” in the St. Augustine Police Benevolent Organization, a private nonprofit funded by members of the St. Augustine Police Department.
The organization provides financial support to officers and their families in times of need and operates independently of the City of St. Augustine and the police department, the agency wrote in a press release Wednesday afternoon.
The nonprofit does not receive taxpayer funding, the department noted.
Concerns arose following the November 2025 retirement of former Assistant Chief Anthony Cuthbert, who had served as the PBO’s treasurer since 2003, SAPD said.
A review of the organization’s finances shortly after his departure revealed inconsistencies that prompted a fuller probe.
Cuthbert joined the department in 1997 and climbed the ranks before his retirement.
“He has served the community in many capacities and formerly held a seat on the Board of Directors for the St. Francis House and Home Again St. Johns, as well as a Trustee for the St. Augustine Police Officers Pension Board,” the agency said in a Facebook post marking his departure.
The State Attorney’s investigation is ongoing and includes a review of the nonprofit’s finances over the past five years.
Officials have not released additional details, citing the ongoing investigation.
“City officials and SAPD leadership are cooperating fully with any requests related to the investigation,” the release stated. “Out of respect for due process and the integrity of the investigation, no further details will be released at this time.”
Cuthbert did not immediately respond to a request for comment.
The Citizen will update this story.
