Former Gala Pride and Diversity Center director sentenced in $59K embezzlement case

By Staff Report · Tue Jun 30 2026

SAN LUIS OBISPO COUNTY — A former executive director of the Gala Pride and Diversity Center has been sentenced after pleading guilty to embezzling more than $59,000 from the nonprofit organization, according to the San Luis Obispo County District Attorney’s Office.

Dustin Colyerworth, who served as executive director beginning in July 2022, entered guilty pleas on May 21, 2026, to two felony counts of grand theft by embezzlement and has paid $59,302.07 in full restitution.

Prosecutors said Colyerworth began taking funds in late November 2022 and continued over several months while in a position of trust. The organization discovered the missing money after his departure in September 2024 and reported the matter to the San Luis Obispo Police Department.

According to the District Attorney’s Office, Colyerworth admitted aggravating factors in the case, including planning and sophistication in carrying out the theft, the large monetary value involved, and abuse of a position of trust.

In exchange for his guilty plea and restitution, prosecutors recommended two years of formal felony probation with a condition of 90 days in county jail. The agreement was approved by the current Gala board, which confirmed the repayment made the organization financially whole.

Judge Michael Frye sentenced Colyerworth on June 25, 2026, in accordance with the negotiated plea agreement. He is ordered to surrender to county jail on Sept. 30, 2026, to begin serving his term.

If probation is violated, Colyerworth faces up to three years and eight months in county jail.