Former CEO Accused of Embezzling Nonprofit Funds in Battle Creek, MI

A prominent figure in Battle Creek’s nonprofit sector is now at the center of a criminal investigation involving shocking allegations of financial misconduct.

Damon Brown, the former President and CEO of R.I.S.E. Corp., stands as the former CEO accused of embezzling nonprofit’s funds on jewelry, travel, and other personal luxuries.

Court documents filed in Calhoun County District Court paint a detailed picture of the accusations.

Prosecutors allege that Brown masterminded a scheme to divert grant money intended for community programs into his own pockets.

The alleged spending is breathtaking.

Funds were reportedly used for a custom gold and diamond necklace and expenses during a trip to Turks and Caicos.

Authorities claim that between 2022 and 2024, Brown created documents that resulted in nearly half a million dollars being paid to him and his organization by the City of Battle Creek.

This created a system where community grant money was allegedly laundered for personal use.

The investigation suggests over $133,000 was embezzled in addition to his regular salary.

Despite the serious charges, Brown maintains his innocence and has stated he looks forward to proving it in court.

The case took a dramatic turn when police executed a search warrant at the R.I.S.E. headquarters on North Avenue, where they reportedly found Brown living.

Inside the building, officers discovered a stolen firearm in a washing machine.

Brown has denied ownership of the weapon, noting the building was publicly accessible.

This scandal casts a shadow over the many respected local institutions that provided funding to R.I.S.E., including the WK Kellogg Foundation and the United Way of South Central Michigan.

Brown now faces a slate of charges, including conducting a criminal enterprise, embezzlement, money laundering, and several felony firearm counts.

He was arraigned and later released on bond, with a preliminary examination scheduled for January 13.