Eugene Henley Jr., a prominent figure in Los Angeles gang intervention efforts, has turned himself in amid serious legal troubles, fearing for his life and pleading for support in a farewell video. Henley, widely known as Big U, faces federal racketeering and corruption charges for allegedly misappropriating funds intended for city-sponsored gang intervention programs.

The California Franchise Tax Board suspended one of Henley’s nonprofits last April, following a federal investigation that revealed he had diverted significant amounts of taxpayer money to personal accounts. According to prosecutors, Henley’s organizations, which received over $2.2 million from the city since 2011, misused funds, including a $20,000 donation from a prominent NBA All-Star.

In a heartfelt video before his surrender, Big U expressed his distress, stating, “I just want y’all to know all this stuff is quagmire… I need y’all’s prayers.” His emotional plea revealed a man grappling with the gravity of his situation, as he acknowledged that he had devoted 21 years to elevating his family.

Henley’s nonprofits, which witnessed a rise in funding following a surge in violent crime during the pandemic, have come under scrutiny for their financial practices. Recent tax records indicated a dramatic increase in revenue, with nearly $800,000 reported in 2023 alone, raising concerns over compensation for top staff members and the overall management of funds.

The fallout from these allegations extends beyond Henley himself, as he once garnered support from various public figures and celebrities who believed in his mission to aid the community. Now, with the legal storm brewing, many are questioning the integrity of the organizations he led and their impact on the community.

As Henley faces the consequences of these serious charges, the future of his nonprofit work and reputation remains uncertain. The case serves as a stark reminder of the complexities surrounding nonprofit funding and accountability within community intervention efforts.