Former National Rifle Association (NRA) official Joshua Powell has admitted to wrongdoing in a settlement with New York Attorney General Letitia James’ office. The settlement comes just days before the start of a trial seeking to dissolve the powerful gun advocacy nonprofit group. Powell, who had already turned his back on the NRA in his 2020 book “Inside the NRA,” will testify at the trial, pay the NRA $100,000, and refrain from further nonprofit involvement.
Powell’s settlement announcement coincided with the resignation of NRA Executive Vice President Wayne LaPierre. The trial alleges that LaPierre indulged in millions of dollars worth of extravagant perks at the expense of the organization, including private jet flights, yacht trips, and African safaris.
As part of the settlement agreement, Powell has admitted to misusing charitable funds and failing in his fiduciary responsibilities. Attorney General James described Powell’s admission and LaPierre’s resignation as confirmation of the NRA’s financial corruption. She expressed her intention to hold the NRA and its senior leaders accountable for their actions.
The NRA has consistently claimed that the case against them is politically motivated. They argue that James violated their First Amendment rights and selectively enforced state laws governing nonprofits due to her disagreement with the group’s gun advocacy. James has publicly criticized the NRA as a “terrorist organization” and a “criminal enterprise.”
LaPierre’s resignation, effective January 31, does not exempt him or the NRA from accountability, according to James. The trial is set to begin on Monday, with LaPierre expected to testify. The NRA has stated that it will continue to fight the lawsuit, which could potentially result in significant changes in leadership and the appointment of an independent monitor to oversee the organization’s finances.
Despite facing financial troubles, declining membership, and internal conflicts, the NRA remains a potent political force, with Republican presidential hopefuls actively participating in its annual convention. However, the organization reported a $36 million deficit in 2018, leading to the reduction of core programs and the filing for bankruptcy in 2021.
Wayne LaPierre has been a central figure in the NRA since 1991, advocating for gun rights and shaping U.S. gun policy. His departure from the organization due to health reasons has not diminished his support for the NRA and its mission to defend Second Amendment freedom. Andrew Arulanandam, a top NRA lieutenant, will assume LaPierre’s roles on an interim basis.
The trial against the NRA will proceed as scheduled, and Attorney General James remains committed to holding them accountable. The NRA’s future and leadership may face significant changes as the legal battle unfolds.
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