Scandal and Grief in the Imperial Court

Readers: We were recently contacted by members of the Imperial Court of the Rocky Mountain Empire with a letter to the editor. We’ve been in contact and have conducted an interview with Empress 42 Gabbriella But’zin. That will premiere in the next issue of Out Front on October 1. Until then, this is the letter, in full and unedited.

_________________________________

The Imperial Court of the Rocky Mountain Empire has been serving the community’s needs for the past 42 years, during that time we have raised and donated over 4 million dollars. Our charities include Howard Dental, Urban Peak, Chesney Kline John, Freedom Service Dogs, Rainbow Alley, CAP, Matthew Shepard Foundation, Horizon and Arapahoe House, Gender ID Center, The Center, and our own White Rose Scholarship.

It is with a heavy heart, we come to the community with the following statement.

During a recent audit, we discovered that our organization had been the victim of fraudulent financial activity, perpetrated by an individual in a position of trust. We immediately removed this person from their position and forwarded our findings to the proper legal authorities. We fully intend to prosecute to the fullest extent of our abilities. In continuing with the audit, we have also discovered that some of our charities, which have been paid, may have been paid less than what was owed. Moving forward we will be meeting with all of our charities, whether affected or not. Those affected will be updated as to the amounts owed, making arrangements to get them paid as quickly as possible.

We have created unique checks and balances, all while strengthening our internal financial controls. We currently are seeking an outside accounting firm, to provide both bookkeeping and auditing services. We have divided our cash handling responsibilities, requiring those individuals to be both bonded and fingerprinted. We are a charter, belonging to an International Council of Courts. We have informed the Executive offices. Our Executive Director has been made aware of this situation. We will be presenting our findings along with the immediate and long term protocols put into place to ensure no future occurrences. Once presented, all information will be returned to the Ethics Commission and they will remain involved until the process is resolved. We are bringing this information to you directly so, we may provide complete transparency of our actions as we move forward. We are most humbly apologetic to you, our community and ask that you remain steadfast by our side, while we work diligently both regaining your trust and continuing our long history of fundraising through diversity. Our goal will remain unchanged, along with our commitment to helping others in need.  

We have asked Our Board of Directors and court members to refer you to us directly, so we may answer any questions you may have in regards to this letter. Please don’t hesitate to ask us in person or with the contact information below. Doing so will prevent any misinformation this unfortunate incident may generate. We are grateful for the support of our members, community partners and donors. Your continued support will indeed create a brighter future for the Imperial Court of the Rocky Mountain Empire and those who depend on our fundraising.

Yours in continuing service,
Emperor 42 Richard Brendlinger
Empress 42 Gabbriella But’zin
Imperial Court of the Rocky Mountain Empire

Please direct inquiries to: Richard&Gabbie@Gmail.com