The chief executive officer of a Los Angeles-based nonprofit organization dedicated to assisting the homeless has been indicted on charges of embezzling taxpayer money to finance a lavish personal lifestyle, according to authorities.
Allegations of Financial Misconduct
Prosecutors allege that the CEO of People Assisting the Homeless (PATH), Joel John Roberts, diverted hundreds of thousands of dollars from the organization to cover personal expenditures, including luxury travel, upscale dining, and private club memberships. The Los Angeles County District Attorney’s Office announced the charges on Thursday.
Roberts, 57, is accused of using PATH’s funds for personal benefit over a period of several years. The indictment lists expenses such as international vacations, stays at high-end hotels, and payments for exclusive clubs. Prosecutors claim these expenditures were not related to PATH’s mission or operations.
Details of the Indictment
The grand jury indictment includes charges of embezzlement, misappropriation of public funds, and filing false financial statements. The District Attorney’s Office stated that Roberts allegedly concealed the misuse of funds by submitting falsified expense reports and other documentation.
“Nonprofit organizations that receive public funds must be held to the highest standards of accountability,” District Attorney George Gascón said in a statement. “The alleged actions in this case represent a betrayal of the public trust and the vulnerable individuals the organization is meant to serve.”
Response from PATH
PATH released a statement indicating that Roberts had been placed on administrative leave pending the outcome of the legal proceedings. The organization stated it is cooperating fully with investigators and has initiated an internal review of its financial practices.
PATH, established in 1984, operates programs throughout California aimed at providing housing and support services to individuals experiencing homelessness. The nonprofit receives significant funding from local, state, and federal government sources.
Next Steps in Legal Process
Roberts is scheduled to be arraigned in Los Angeles County Superior Court next month. If convicted, he could face several years in state prison. The District Attorney’s Office has not disclosed whether additional individuals connected to PATH are under investigation.
Further information about the case can be found at this link.
