POCATELLO — Bannock County Prosecutor Ian Johnson has confirmed that an investigation is underway based on information received from the Portneuf Valley Soccer Club.

Johnson wouldn’t comment further about the investigation when contacted Wednesday evening but the Portneuf Valley Soccer Club issued a news release earlier in the day stating it had “completed a forensic accounting review concerning potential financial irregularities involving organizational funds.”

“Upon becoming aware of information suggesting potential misuse of assets, the (club’s) Board of Directors took decisive action,” the news release said. “The organization initiated a thorough review and retained a qualified forensic accounting firm to conduct a rigorous and impartial review of its financial records and transactions. The forensic accounting has been completed and based on the findings, the matter has been forwarded to the Bannock County prosecuting attorney for evaluation and any action they deem appropriate.”

Pocatello police told the Idaho State Journal on Thursday that the probe involves more than $100,000 of missing funds but declined to comment further, citing the active and ongoing investigation.

Johnson confirmed a summons has been issued for a person close to the investigation and they are expected to appear in court next week.

The club said in its news release that it would not be commenting further.

“Because the matter is under review by the prosecutor’s office, PVSC will not make comments on individuals, evidence or potential legal proceedings,” the club stated in its news release. “PVSC recognizes that all parties are entitled to due process and will not engage in further public discussion that could interfere with the investigative process. The board takes its obligation to the club and the community seriously and is committed to protecting PVSC and its resources.”

The club continued, “PVSC will review all financial oversight measures and internal controls to safeguard organizational assets going forward. PVSC’s programs and leagues will continue to operate as normal. The (club’s) board is committed to our community and serving its players, families, coaches, volunteers and the soccer community.”

The Portneuf Valley Soccer Club is a non-profit organization that started in 1982 and was originally known as Gate City Youth Soccer. Its mission is to educate the community on all aspects of soccer, from playing to coaching to refereeing, as well as to promote sportsmanship.