Howard Solomon, also known as Solomon Howard, entered a guilty plea today for mail fraud and tax evasion charges linked to embezzling from the East Oakland Boxing Association (EOBA). This organization provides services to low-income youth in East Oakland. Solomon, 38, served as the EOBA Executive Director from 2016 to 2021 and was accused of transferring at least $549,000 from EOBA accounts to accounts he controlled.
Solomon, who became an authorized signatory on EOBA accounts at Wells Fargo in 2016, diverted charitable contributions intended for EOBA into his accounts, including a $50,000 donation linked to a December 2019 appearance by Stephen and Ayesha Curry on the Ellen DeGeneres Show.
The plea also revealed that he used the funds for personal expenses such as vacations, a vehicle, and online purchases. Additionally, Solomon admitted to tax evasion by not reporting the embezzled funds and misrepresenting expenses linked to two alleged businesses, causing a tax loss of approximately $287,185 to the IRS.
Acting United States Attorney Patrick D. Robbins and IRS Criminal Investigation Special Agent in Charge Linda Nguyen announced Solomon's guilty plea. His sentencing will take place on August 14, 2025, in front of U.S. District Judge Yvonne Gonzalez Rogers. Solomon could face up to 20 years in prison, fines, and restitution. The U.S. Sentencing Guidelines and federal statutes will guide the court's final decision.
Assistant U.S. Attorney Thomas R. Green is handling the prosecution, with help from Amala James and Alycee Lane. The investigation was conducted by the IRS Criminal Investigation.