A New York judge has issued a 10-year ban on Wayne LaPierre, the former head of the National Rifle Association (NRA), from holding any paid position within the organization. This decision came as part of the civil corruption trial brought against the NRA by New York Attorney General Letitia James. Judge Joel Cohen, however, declined to appoint an independent monitor to oversee the NRA’s finances, a key remedy sought by James.
In February, a jury found LaPierre and other NRA executives liable for diverting millions of dollars from the organization for personal use. The jury determined LaPierre had caused $5.4 million in harm, though he has repaid at least $1 million. John Frazer, the group’s corporate secretary, and Wilson “Woody” Phillips, the former treasurer, were also implicated. Phillips caused $2 million in harm and is banned from fiduciary positions in New York nonprofits for 10 years.
Judge Cohen stated that the request for an independent monitor was not the correct remedy, suggesting it would be overly intrusive and costly without providing significant benefits. He also expressed concerns about government intrusion into the NRA’s affairs. LaPierre had argued that appointing a monitor would send a damaging message to potential members and donors, likening it to “putting a knife straight through the heart of the organization.”
Despite the ban, it remains unclear what practical effect it will have, as the NRA stated it had no plans to rehire LaPierre. The organization claims to have implemented strong internal controls and brought in new leadership to address past issues. LaPierre, who resigned in January citing health issues, had served as the NRA’s CEO and executive vice president for over 30 years.
The NRA has faced significant financial challenges, with membership dues and contributions falling sharply in recent years. Attorney General James initially sought to dissolve the organization entirely, but a judge ruled in 2022 that the allegations did not warrant such a drastic measure. The case has highlighted the internal issues within the NRA and the ongoing scrutiny it faces.
Attorney General Letitia James’ Perspective:
Sought a permanent ban on Wayne LaPierre from the NRA and the appointment of an independent monitor to oversee the NRA’s finances
Believes these measures are necessary due to LaPierre’s mismanagement and the need for transparency
Wayne LaPierre and NRA’s Perspective:
Argued against the appointment of a monitor, suggesting it would be overly intrusive and detrimental to the organization
LaPierre emphasized his right to associate and speak freely, despite his retirement
The NRA claims to have implemented strong internal controls and a change in leadership to address past issues.