Inside Safe Data Allegedly Withheld to Protect Mayor’s Image
Los Angeles’ top homeless services official is facing serious allegations of misconduct following claims by two former high-ranking employees who say they were terminated in retaliation for reporting unethical behavior, as reported by the LAist.
Newly revealed legal documents acquired by the LAist, accuse Va Lecia Adams Kellum, the chief executive of the Los Angeles Homeless Services Authority (LAHSA), of hiring unqualified associates from her previous workplace, instructing staff to delete official records, and attempting to mislead city officials by suppressing data related to Mayor Karen Bass’ Inside Safe initiative. The allegations surfaced in whistleblower claims filed by Kristina Dixon, former chief financial officer, and Emily Vaughn Henry, former head of IT and data operations.
The two former executives received an $800,000 settlement to avoid litigation, an amount that, according to a recent audit, could fund shelter services for roughly 40 unhoused individuals for a year.
The claim letters outline several serious charges. Adams Kellum allegedly removed experienced LAHSA personnel to bring in former colleagues and friends, some of whom were described as unqualified for their new high-salaried roles. One such employee reportedly used a personal cell phone for official communications, violating LAHSA’s internal policy.
Further, the complaints state that Adams Kellum directed staff to delete two official...
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