Former nonprofit director charged with stealing $280k in rental aid funds

Pipheak 'Tom' Sun accused of redirecting public money to himself, family, and friends

Published on Feb. 24, 2026

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A former director at the nonprofit Community Teamwork Inc. in Lowell, Massachusetts has been arraigned on charges that he stole more than $280,000 in rental-assistance funds intended for families facing housing crises. Prosecutors allege that between 2021 and 2023, Pipheak 'Tom' Sun abused his role to create fraudulent rental-assistance applications and funnel the public money to himself, his wife, and several friends and relatives.

Why it matters

The allegations strike at the heart of programs meant to keep vulnerable families housed, especially as the cost of living continues to rise and Massachusetts residents grapple with a housing crisis. The case reflects a deliberate effort to exploit a critical safety-net program, raising concerns about oversight and accountability in the administration of public resources.

The details

Prosecutors said that Sun, 51, of Pepperell, redirected about $23,000 in CTI funds into bank accounts belonging to him and his wife. He is also accused of facilitating $259,000 in rental-assistance payments to five friends and family members whom he falsely listed as landlords of tenants in need, often receiving kickbacks of roughly 60% of those payments, often in cash. Investigators believe Sun submitted at least five emergency rental-assistance applications using the personal information of four individuals without their knowledge or authorization.

  • Between 2021 and 2023, Sun allegedly committed the crimes.
  • In June 2023, CTI learned of potential irregularities.
  • On February 19, 2026, Sun was arraigned on the charges.

The players

Pipheak 'Tom' Sun

A 51-year-old former director at the nonprofit Community Teamwork Inc. who is accused of stealing more than $280,000 in rental-assistance funds.

Community Teamwork Inc. (CTI)

A nonprofit organization that administers rental-assistance programs and provides payments directly to landlords on behalf of qualifying tenants.

Joy Campbell

The Attorney General of Massachusetts who announced the charges against Sun.

Jeffrey Shapiro

The Inspector General who said the case reflects a deliberate effort to exploit a safety-net program.

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What they’re saying

“As the cost of living continues to rise and Massachusetts residents grapple with our housing crisis, it is critical that resources designated to help families pay their rent end up in the right hands.”

— Joy Campbell, Attorney General of Massachusetts (Press release)

“The indictments allege a deliberate scheme to defraud a program designed to help people keep a roof over their heads. The OIG will continue to work with the Attorney General's Office to safeguard public resources and hold those who enrich themselves at the expense of these resources to account.”

— Jeffrey Shapiro, Inspector General (Press release)

What’s next

Sun is scheduled to return to court for a scheduling conference on March 10, 2026.

The takeaway

This case highlights the critical need for robust oversight and accountability measures in the administration of public assistance programs, especially as vulnerable communities face growing housing insecurity. It underscores the importance of diligent stewardship of taxpayer funds to ensure they reach those truly in need.