Charity Bigwig Accused of Stealing $23 Million in Homeless Services Fraud Pleads Not Guilty
In a dramatic court appearance in Los Angeles, Alexander Soofer, a 42-year-old charity executive, pleaded not guilty to charges of embezzling $23 million through California homeless services fraud. Soofer, who authorities claim lived a lavish lifestyle at the expense of taxpayers, appeared visibly nervous as he stood before Judge Theresa McGonigle before attempting to evade media attention.
Accused of diverting funds intended for combating homelessness to fund his extravagant lifestyle, which included a $7 million mansion in Westwood, a $125,000 Range Rover, and luxury vacations, Soofer was released on a $610,000 bond. When approached by a reporter from the California Post, he simply replied with a “no comment,” backed by his attorney Michael Freedman.
During the court proceedings, Soofer only spoke when prompted by the judge, affirming his understanding of the not guilty plea entered by his attorney and acknowledging the court’s orders to obey all laws and remain in the state. His cellphone buzzed incessantly, and family members called out to him as he waited in the courtroom.
Previously facing federal charges for misusing funds to pay for his children’s private school tuition, Soofer now confronts 18 additional fraud charges filed by Los Angeles District Attorney Nathan Hochman. If convicted on all counts, he could potentially serve up to 37 years in prison.
