Dominique Morgan, a prominent Black trans activist and former nonprofit leader, is facing serious legal troubles as she has been indicted on charges of grand larceny and falsifying records. Once celebrated for her advocacy work, Morgan is now accused of misappropriating nearly $100,000 intended for a bail program for indigent individuals while serving as the executive director of the OKRA Project in Brooklyn.
Key Takeaways
- Dominique Morgan, 42, faces charges of grand larceny and falsifying business records.
- Allegedly misused nearly $100,000 from the OKRA Project, a nonprofit supporting Black trans individuals.
- Morgan was previously honored with a street named after her for her activism.
- She is scheduled to return to court on December 18, facing a potential sentence of 5 to 15 years if convicted.
Background on Dominique Morgan
Dominique Morgan, 42, has been a significant figure in the fight for the rights of marginalized communities, particularly Black trans individuals. Her work has included advocating for prison reform and providing mutual aid through the OKRA Project, which focuses on supporting Black trans people. In recognition of her contributions, a street was named after her in Omaha, Nebraska, making her the first openly Black trans woman and formerly incarcerated individual to receive such an honor.
The Allegations
According to the Brooklyn District Attorney’s Office, Morgan is accused of transferring $99,000 from the OKRA Project into her personal account between July 14 and July 27, 2022. The funds were intended for an indigent bail program, but instead, Morgan allegedly used the money for personal expenses, including:
- A $19,000 renovation of her California Closet
- Car payments for a Mercedes Benz
- Other undisclosed personal expenses
When questioned about the use of the funds, Morgan reportedly submitted fraudulent receipts for 23 individuals she claimed to have bailed out in Georgia and Nebraska. However, an audit revealed that none of these individuals had been arrested in those locations during the specified time frame.
Legal Proceedings
Morgan was arraigned in Brooklyn Supreme Court before Justice Danny Chun, facing charges of second-degree grand larceny and falsifying business records. She was released without bail and is set to return to court on December 18. If convicted, Morgan could face a maximum sentence ranging from five to 15 years in prison.
Community Reaction
The news of Morgan’s indictment has sent shockwaves through the communities she once served. Many supporters are grappling with the contrast between her previous accolades and the serious nature of the charges against her. District Attorney Eric Gonzalez emphasized the importance of accountability in nonprofit organizations, stating, "The theft of nonprofit funds deprives communities of critical resources, erodes public trust, and cheats donors who give in good faith."
As the case unfolds, it raises questions about the integrity of nonprofit leadership and the impact of such allegations on the communities they serve. Morgan’s story serves as a reminder of the complexities surrounding activism, accountability, and the potential for betrayal within organizations meant to uplift marginalized voices.
Sources
- Brooklyn nonprofit leader Dominique Morgan faces fraud charges, Brooklyn Eagle.
