James Huntsman Files Lawsuit Against LDS Church Alleging Tithing Fraud

James Huntsman, the brother of former Utah Gov. Jon Huntsman Jr., has filed a lawsuit against The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, alleging that the church fraudulently spent millions of dollars in tithing funds intended for charity on commercial purposes. The lawsuit was filed in the U.S. District Court for the Central District of California on Tuesday. Huntsman seeks to recover millions of his donations and plans to redirect the funds to organizations and communities that have been marginalized by the Church’s teachings, including charities supporting LGBTQ, African-American, and women’s rights.

This legal action follows a 2019 whistleblower complaint filed by a former high-level investment manager with the Church, alleging that the Church collected $100 billion in accounts meant for charitable use and misled members by accumulating surplus donations. The complaint also claimed that the church’s investment division, Ensign Peak Advisors, had not directly funded any religious, educational, or charitable activities in 22 years. However, the complaint did not provide documentation to support these claims.

A Church spokesperson, Eric Hawkins, addressed the allegations in a statement to the Washington Post, asserting that the claims are “baseless.” Hawkins emphasized that tithing funds are voluntary contributions expressing faith in God and are used for a wide range of religious purposes, including missionary work, education, humanitarian causes, and the construction of religious buildings, as outlined in scripture and determined by Church leaders.

The Church has not engaged in discussions with the IRS regarding the whistleblower complaint, according to Hawkins. He also stated that there has been no change in the use of funds from Ensign Peak Advisors since the complaint was filed. The Church maintains that its financial practices remain consistent with its stated religious purposes.

Huntsman’s lawsuit raises significant concerns about the transparency and accountability of religious organizations in managing charitable donations. The case highlights the tension between institutional governance and public trust, as well as the need for clear financial oversight in matters of faith and charity. The outcome of this legal battle could have broader implications for how religious institutions are perceived and regulated in terms of financial integrity and ethical responsibility.

The issue of tithing and its use within religious organizations touches on themes of justice and accountability. Micah 6:8 calls for justice, mercy, and humility in service to others, a principle that underscores the importance of ensuring that charitable resources are used responsibly and with integrity.

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