The chief executive officer of a Los Angeles-based nonprofit organization dedicated to assisting the homeless has been indicted on charges of diverting taxpayer funds to finance personal luxury expenditures, according to authorities.
Allegations of Fraudulent Use of Public Money
Prosecutors allege that the CEO, identified as 56-year-old Va Lecia Adams Kellum, used public funds allocated for homeless services to pay for high-end travel, designer goods, and expensive dining. The accusations were announced on Thursday by the Los Angeles County District Attorney’s Office.
According to the criminal complaint, Adams Kellum is charged with embezzlement, misappropriation of public funds, and conflict of interest. The charges stem from her tenure as head of the St. Joseph Center, a nonprofit organization contracted by the city and county of Los Angeles to provide services to unhoused individuals.
Details of the Alleged Misconduct
The District Attorney’s Office claims that between 2017 and 2022, Adams Kellum used organizational credit cards to pay for luxury hotels, first-class airfare, and designer clothing. Prosecutors allege that she also used nonprofit funds to cover personal expenses, including spa treatments and lavish restaurant bills.
“Public funds intended to help the most vulnerable members of our community must be used for their intended purpose,” District Attorney George Gascón stated. “We will hold accountable those who exploit their positions for personal gain.”
Response from the St. Joseph Center
The St. Joseph Center released a statement indicating that it is cooperating fully with the investigation. The organization emphasized its commitment to transparency and maintaining public trust while the legal process is underway.
Legal Proceedings and Potential Penalties
Adams Kellum is scheduled to be arraigned in Los Angeles County Superior Court. If convicted, she could face several years in state prison. The District Attorney’s Office has not disclosed the total amount of money allegedly misappropriated.
Background on the St. Joseph Center
The St. Joseph Center is a nonprofit that provides food, housing, and support services to homeless and low-income individuals throughout Los Angeles County. The organization receives funding from both city and county agencies to carry out its programs.
Additional information on this case can be found at this link.
