Maejor Page, also known as Tyree Conyers-Page, faces trial on charges of swindling donors out of $500,000 in a fundraising scheme linked to the Black Lives Matter movement.
Prosecutors allege that Page, a former actor who gained prominence as a Black Lives Matter activist, misappropriated funds raised through a GoFundMe campaign initiated under the banner of Black Lives Matter of Greater Atlanta, according to the Daily Mail.
The accusations against Page include wire fraud and two counts of money laundering, marking a serious legal ordeal for the 35-year-old, who has had minor roles in television shows like American Horror Story and Constantine.
Investigators say Page, who claims he's the “world's sexiest albino,” diverted the funds for personal use, splurging on luxury items such as tailored suits, firearms, and a residence in Toledo, Ohio. Despite Page's defense attorney's claims that a portion of the funds was intended for charitable purposes, testimony from an FBI agent suggests otherwise.
Funds from the charity account were allegedly used to cover personal expenses, including lavish dining and retail expenditures, raising doubts about Page's purported altruism.
Page's attempts to conceal his actions, including entering into non-disclosure agreements to disguise transactions, further undermine his credibility. Details of expenditures, including purchases made using Black Lives Matter Greater Atlanta debit cards, paint a troubling picture of financial impropriety.
An assistant U.S. attorney, Robert Melching, presented video evidence during the court proceedings depicting Page boasting about his possessions and income.
Page's defense attorney, Charles Boss, argued that Page's statements were not indicative of personal use but rather part of his broader advocacy efforts. Boss sought to downplay the significance of the video, portraying it as mere self-promotion rather than evidence of financial misconduct.
In the footage, Page proudly declares ownership of “16 blue suits” and asserts that he earns “six figures.” Furthermore, he admonishes critics who questioned his income by asserting his dedication to fighting for justice.
Page's legal troubles extend beyond the current charges, as he has a history of facing arrests for impersonating a police officer, which he attributes to his past employment as a security guard.
Page expressed confidence in his no guilty position. Then asserted that the government's pursuit of criminal charges against him, a self-proclaimed social justice activist, is unsurprising.
FBI agent Matthew Desorbo is slated to undergo cross-examination during the upcoming hearing, further adding to the unfolding legal drama surrounding Page's trial.
The controversy surrounding Page's actions adds to a series of scandals involving Black Lives Matter activists accused of financial misconduct in the wake of the protests and riots of 2020.
The movement faced scrutiny after revelations that co-founders had diverted millions of dollars towards extravagant purchases, undermining the public's trust in charitable donations.
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