LA Charity Leader Charged with Embezzling Funds Intended for Homeless Support
LA Charity Leader Arrested for Alleged Homelessness Fraud
LOS ANGELES – Alexander Soofer, the executive director of a South Los Angeles charity, was arrested Friday on federal charges of fraudulently obtaining more than $23 million intended to combat homelessness. Prosecutors allege he embezzled at least $10 million to purchase luxury properties and pay for personal expenses.
According to a federal complaint, Soofer, 42, is accused of using funds earmarked for vulnerable populations to finance a $7 million home in Westwood, a $125,000 Range Rover, private school tuition for his children, and a vacation property in Greece. The charity, Abundant Blessings, was reportedly situated in a Hyde Park complex, which is now for sale amidst complaints of disruptive activities.
Investigators contend that while under contract with the Los Angeles Homeless Services Authority (LAHSA), Soofer failed to provide adequate housing and meals for over 600 homeless individuals. Instead, he allegedly misused the funding for personal gain while fabricating fraudulent invoices to conceal his actions.
Between 2018 and 2025, Soofer received over $23 million in homeless funding, with more than $5 million sourced directly from LAHSA. The complaint outlines that he misrepresented costs related to housing services, diverting funds intended for third-party vendors to his own accounts.
Federal prosecutors maintain that deficiencies in Soofer’s services were uncovered following city and county site visits, which revealed substandard food offerings, contrary to the nutritious meals he claimed were being provided.
Amid growing scrutiny, Soofer purportedly diverted at least $10 million for personal expenses, including substantial home renovations, gambling trips, private jet travel, and luxury vacations. The investigation led to the discovery that he allegedly used $475,000 to purchase a vacation property in Greece.
If convicted on the federal fraud charge, Soofer could face up to 20 years in prison. The state charges against him carry a potential maximum sentence of 17 years.
Los Angeles Mayor Karen Bass expressed that her administration has "zero tolerance for fraud," condemning Soofer’s actions as a betrayal of taxpayer trust. She lamented the breach of responsibility towards those in need and emphasized the necessity for accountability.
Councilwoman Monica Rodriguez echoed these sentiments, highlighting ongoing concerns about LAHSA’s oversight and calling for legislative reforms to ensure more direct accountability in the allocation of public resources for homeless services.
