Jury Finds NRA, Wayne Lapierre Liable In Civil Corruption Case

A Manhattan jury has held three top executives of the National Rifle Association (NRA), including former CEO Wayne LaPierre, accountable in a civil trial centered on corruption and misuse of funds. The trial, initiated by New York Attorney General Letitia James, accused LaPierre and others of diverting millions in donations for personal luxury. LaPierre, who recently resigned, was found to have breached his duty of good faith, causing approximately $5.4 million in damages to the NRA, although he has repaid about $2 million. The jury also found former CFO Wilson “Woody” Phillips liable for $2 million in damages but did not attribute financial harm to general counsel John Frazer’s actions. This verdict underscores years of allegations against LaPierre for using charitable funds for personal extravagance. The case sheds light on the significant financial losses and internal mismanagement within the NRA, marking a significant blow to the organization’s political influence and standing.

Source: NPR