Former AMA Board Chairman Dal Smilie sentenced

OFF THE WIRE

Feb. 22, 2010

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

Former AMA Board Chairman Dal Smilie sentenced

PICKERINGTON, Ohio -- Former American Motorcyclist Association (AMA) Board Chairman Dal Smilie was sentenced Monday, Feb. 22, to eight months in prison and two years probation for embezzling more than $100,000 through fraudulent travel reimbursement claims submitted to the AMA over a period of years ending in 2007.

Smilie pleaded guilty to felony counts of grand theft by deception and of receiving stolen property in the Fairfield County, Ohio, courtroom of Judge Chris Martin. He was taken directly into custody to begin serving a sentence that could see him request early release after 30 days.

Speaking to Judge Martin before his sentencing, Smilie expressed remorse for his actions.

"I've got much to apologize for, and many people to apologize to, including AMA members, AMA staff, my fellow board members and volunteers," he said. "I've let them down."

Smilie acknowledged that his fraudulent travel-reimbursement claims stemmed from his time as an AMA board member. "I overstated travel claims," he said. "I co-mingled funds. That's misappropriation. That's theft. That's a breach of trust, and I'm sorry for that. I was an honorable person, and I kind of slid into this. I don't have good excuses."

Fairfield County Assistant Prosecutor Gregg Marx said after the hearing that the sentence was appropriate, especially in light of the fact that Smilie paid restitution to the AMA for the money in question. "We're very pleased with the resolution of this case."

AMA President and CEO Rob Dingman echoed those sentiments. "On behalf of the members of the American Motorcyclist Association, we are satisfied that justice has been served, and we are glad to put this matter behind us," he said.

About the American Motorcyclist Association
Since 1924, the AMA has protected the future of motorcycling and promoted the motorcycle lifestyle. AMA members come from all walks of life, and they navigate many different routes on their journey to the same destination: freedom on two wheels. As the world's largest motorcycling rights organization, the AMA advocates for motorcyclists' interests in the halls of local, state and federal government, the committees of international governing organizations, and the court of public opinion. Through member clubs, promoters and partners, the AMA sanctions more motorsports competition and motorcycle recreational events than any other organization in the world. AMA members receive money-saving discounts from dozens of well-known suppliers of motorcycle services, gear and apparel, bike rental, transport, hotel stays and more. Through its Motorcycle Hall of Fame Museum, the AMA preserves the heritage of motorcycling for future generations.