James O’Keefe Under Probe For Financial Misconduct, Project Veritas Fires Almost All Employees — Reports
James O’Keefe, formerly CEO of the conservative nonprofit Project Veritas, is currently the subject of an investigation by the Westchester County District Attorney’s Office. The investigation, prompted by allegations of financial improprieties during O’Keefe’s tenure as chairman and CEO, has gained public attention.
Although the specific details of the inquiry remain undisclosed, the timing suggests a connection to claims made earlier this year by Project Veritas’ board of directors. They accused O’Keefe of misusing donor funds for personal luxuries over the past three years, fueling a public dispute over the organization’s management and future.
This investigation comes amidst a series of legal challenges and financial setbacks faced by Project Veritas under O’Keefe’s leadership. Notably, an ongoing federal investigation is scrutinizing the theft of property belonging to Ashley Biden, daughter of US President Joe Biden.
When contacted for comment, Jin Whang, Director of Public Affairs at the Westchester County DA’s office, confirmed the investigation’s existence while maintaining confidentiality about its initiation.
In a separate legal action this May, Project Veritas filed a civil complaint against O’Keefe, accusing him of breaching his contractual and fiduciary obligations to the organization. Hannah Giles, recently appointed CEO of Project Veritas, emphasized that the organization did not instigate the investigation by the Westchester DA’s office, but would cooperate with authorities as required by law.
Giles assumed leadership following a period of internal conflict within Project Veritas. However, curiously, the organization’s official account on X (formerly Twitter) seemingly tweeted that the new chief fired almost all of the firm’s staff. The post was immediately deleted afterwards.
The nonprofit, known for its controversial undercover investigations, was established over a decade ago by O’Keefe and Giles. Their tactics, exemplified by hidden-camera stings against ACORN, led to the dissolution of the liberal community-organizing group. Despite subsequent legal challenges and criticism of its methods, Project Veritas grew substantially, attracting over $22 million in revenue in 2020.
The investigation into O’Keefe’s financial practices sheds light on potential discrepancies in the organization’s funds. The Veritas board alleged that O’Keefe misused funds for personal expenses, including extravagant travel and entertainment. These expenditures, if substantiated, could raise concerns about the organization’s tax-exempt status.
The Westchester DA’s investigation is part of a broader legal landscape surrounding O’Keefe and Project Veritas. As the inquiry unfolds, key figures within the organization, including CFO Tom O’Hara and tax-preparer Ed Hulse, have come under scrutiny. Meanwhile, a separate investigation initiated by O’Keefe himself, in collaboration with Hulse, seeks to uncover financial discrepancies within Project Veritas.
Information for this briefing was found via The Nation and the sources mentioned. The author has no securities or affiliations related to this organization. Not a recommendation to buy or sell. Always do additional research and consult a professional before purchasing a security. The author holds no licenses.
