Wayne LaPierre, the former head of the National Rifle Association (NRA), expressed strong opposition to the appointment of a financial monitor during a civil case brought by New York Attorney General Letitia James, arguing that it would threaten the NRA's existence and discourage potential members and donors.

Judge Joel Cohen declined to appoint an independent monitor to oversee the NRA's finances, stating that such an action would be disruptive and costly without providing significant benefits.

James originally sought to dissolve the NRA in 2020 due to alleged financial misconduct, but a judge ruled in 2022 that the allegations did not justify such an extreme measure.

The lawsuit accused LaPierre of misusing charitable funds for personal benefits, which included lavish expenditures such as private jet trips.

In February, a jury found LaPierre liable for diverting millions from the NRA to fund his lavish lifestyle, leading to a repayment order of nearly $4.4 million.

Alongside LaPierre, the NRA's former finance chief, Wilson Phillips, was ordered to repay $2 million after being found liable for financial misconduct.

Despite the jury's findings, Judge Cohen issued a 10-year ban on LaPierre from holding a paid position with the NRA but did not impose further restrictions.

NRA attorney Sarah Rogers stated the organization has implemented strong internal controls and has no plans to rehire LaPierre.

The ruling, which included the ban on LaPierre, was made on July 29, 2024, during the ongoing civil trial.

The NRA has faced significant challenges, losing over 1.3 million members since 2018, which highlights the ongoing scrutiny of its leadership and financial practices.

This legal action is part of the broader controversy surrounding the NRA's leadership, which has been under intense scrutiny for its financial practices.

The trial has drawn attention to the NRA's financial practices, with accusations against LaPierre for using funds for personal luxuries and extravagant gifts.