Overview

• Judge Christian Jenkins directed Rodney McMullen to submit a written account of his March exit, including the names of others involved, by August 8.
• Plaintiffs in the unrelated suit brought by singer Jewel say the explanation is vital to assess McMullen’s credibility and probe Kroger’s corporate culture.
• McMullen’s legal team has opposed the inquiry as irrelevant and embarrassing, but the judge deemed the written response necessary for discovery.
• Kroger initially tied McMullen’s unexpected departure to an internal probe into his “personal conduct,” resulting in the forfeiture of about $11 million in unvested equity and bonuses.
• It remains unknown whether McMullen complied with the order or if any produced statement will be entered into the public record or kept under seal.