Secret Audio Reveals NRA's Plot to Conceal CEO's Luxury Expenses
Wayne LaPierre's use of private jets and luxury hotel stays were hidden through a credit card scheme, leading to his recent resignation amidst legal action.
- Secret audio recordings from a 2009 meeting reveal a plot by the National Rifle Association's (NRA) treasurer to conceal extravagant expenses involving its then-chief executive, Wayne LaPierre.
- The recordings show discussions about LaPierre's desire to avoid public disclosure of his use of private jets and concern about persistent spending at luxury hotels.
- The NRA's PR firm, Ackerman McQueen, agreed to issue a Platinum American Express card to Tyler Schropp, the head of the NRA’s advancement division, to cover these expenses and bill them back to the NRA under vague invoices.
- New York Attorney General Letitia James' expert witness on nonprofits stated that this use of the Ackerman American Express card bypassed internal controls designed to ensure proper disclosure, regulatory compliance, and prevent fraud and abuse at the nonprofit.
- LaPierre, who presided over the NRA for three decades, announced his resignation at the end of January, amidst ongoing legal action from the New York Attorney General's office.
Salon 
ProPublica 
