Wyclef Jean appeared at a press conference to defend himself against allegations that his Yele Haiti foundation misused funds and failed to file taxes on time. The press conference came after The Smoking Gun reported that in 2006, Yele's expenditures included $31,200 to Platinum Sounds recording studio, $100,000 paid to Wyclef Jean for his performance at a benefit concert, and $250,000 to Telemax, a for-profit Haitian company that Wyclef controls interest in.
(On an interesting side note, a large amount of the foundation's charitable contributions in 2006 came from People magazine. This payment was from the first photos of Angelina Jolie pregnant. The actress requested the money go to the Yele Haiti charity, rather than paid to her directly.)
Check out the press conference below of an emotional Wyclef Jean, with tears running down his face, addressing the rumors. He says, "Have I made mistakes? Yes...Did I ever use Yele money for personal benefits? Absolutely not."
Would The Smoking Gun report stop you from contributing to Wyclef Jean's charity? Or do you believe it's ok for a charity to have these types of expenses?
recommend
Facebook
Twitter
bookmark 
print
Comments: 4
Why are you trying to destroy the man's Character
I think that it is a sin and a shame that this man should be placed under further pressure over issues which have to do with finances. The collective narcissism and sadistic behavior of the press is beyond horrific! To suggest impropriety about this man's character at a time like this is simply disgraceful! His countrymen are dead, dying, and suffering! I have said from the beginning that Haitians should be taken out of there from the beginning. Where is the humanity! We need to be focused on efforts to help our brothers and sisters or does their humanity matter?