BREAKING: Monica Cannon-Grant, founder of the now-defunct nonprofit Violence in Boston, is expected to plead guilty to serious fraud charges, according to new court filings. The activist’s change of plea hearing is scheduled for Friday, October 27, 2023, just weeks before her trial was set to begin next month.
Cannon-Grant, who initially pleaded not guilty in 2022, along with her husband Clark Grant, faces multiple counts of fraud following a federal indictment in March 2022. Prosecutors allege that between 2017 and 2021, Cannon-Grant misappropriated funds intended for her nonprofit, using donations and grants for personal expenses such as hotel stays, gas, nail salons, groceries, and travel.
In a shocking twist, the couple is also accused of fraudulently obtaining over $100,000 in Pandemic Unemployment Assistance while receiving income from the nonprofit and Grant’s full-time job. Furthermore, federal authorities reported that Cannon-Grant allegedly misused $53,977 in COVID-19 relief funds, diverting them to pay for personal auto loans and insurance. Additionally, they are said to have concealed their household income to unlawfully secure $12,600 in rental assistance from the city of Boston.
The implications of these charges are staggering, not only affecting the financial integrity of charitable organizations but also raising questions about accountability in the nonprofit sector. Clark Grant tragically passed away in a motorcycle accident in March 2023, adding a layer of complexity to this already tumultuous case.
As Cannon-Grant prepares to change her plea, the legal ramifications could be severe, potentially impacting her future and the legacy of her organization. The public is closely watching as this case unfolds, with many questioning the potential fallout for similar organizations.
For updates on this developing story, stay tuned as we bring you the latest details.
