Maryland Campaign Treasurer Indicted for Alleged Embezzlement

Funds used to refinance personal yacht loan, prosecutors say

Mar. 30, 2026 at 10:38pm

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An extreme close-up of a crumpled financial document reflecting a harsh, direct camera flash, conceptually illustrating an investigation into alleged campaign finance misuse.A harsh flash photograph of financial evidence exposes an alleged campaign finance scandal.Baltimore Today

A 58-year-old treasurer for several Maryland political candidates and organizations has been indicted on charges of wire fraud and money laundering. James Appel is accused of stealing around $200,000 and using the funds to help refinance a loan for his personal yacht.

Why it matters

The alleged embezzlement of campaign funds and abuse of public trust raises concerns about the integrity of Maryland's political system and the need for stronger oversight and accountability measures around campaign finance.

The details

According to the U.S. Attorney's Office, Appel is accused of stealing about $100,000 each from a politician's account and an Anne Arundel community organization. He is also alleged to have prepared false campaign finance reports to the Maryland Board of Elections and misled the community organization's board about their available funds.

  • Appel was indicted on the charges on March 30, 2026.
  • The indictment was unsealed on the same day.

The players

James Appel

A 58-year-old from Annapolis who served as a treasurer for several Maryland political candidates and organizations.

Kathy Szeliga

A Maryland Delegate who represents part of Baltimore County in the House of Delegates and identified herself as one of Appel's victims.

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What they’re saying

“Like others, I relied on him to handle campaign finances honestly and transparently. Instead, he allegedly diverted and embezzled funds that were contributed in good faith by hardworking Marylanders, who are also victims of his alleged crimes.”

— Kathy Szeliga, Maryland Delegate

“I am grateful to the hard-working federal agents, the FBI, and the federal prosecutors for their thorough investigation and for bringing these charges. Accountability matters. The integrity of our elections and campaign finance system matters.”

— Kathy Szeliga, Maryland Delegate

What’s next

Appel is expected to appear in federal court for an initial hearing on the charges in the coming days.

The takeaway

This case highlights the importance of robust financial oversight and accountability measures for campaign treasurers and political organizations to prevent abuse of public trust and ensure the integrity of the electoral process.