LGBTQ+ community leader arrested after allegedly using non-profit's funds for haircuts, Uber journeys and fuel

An LGBTQ+ community organiser in Florida has been arrested after allegedly using a non-profit organisation’s funds for personal expenses, including haircuts, Uber journeys and fuel. 

Jason Nunez, the former director of the Greater Fort Lauderdale LGBT Chamber of Commerce, is accused of spending more than $11,000 (£8,000) of the organisation’s money on personal purchases and cash withdrawals. According to police, the alleged spending took place over several months and included transactions at major retailers, transport providers and a local barbershop. 

Investigators allege Nunez used the organisation’s business credit card on a near-daily basis from October 2025, with spending increasing in the months before his employment ended. Police also claim funds were transferred through digital payment services, including Zelle and Apple Cash, and that cash was withdrawn from the chamber’s accounts. 

The alleged misuse of funds came to an end after Nunez was dismissed from his role in January this year, according to reports. 

Nunez has pleaded not guilty to the allegations and was released on bond following his arrest. Neither he nor the chamber has publicly commented on the case. 

The case comes amid a separate legal dispute between Nunez and his former employer. He has filed a lawsuit alleging breach of contract, claiming he was not paid during part of his employment before being dismissed. The chamber has denied those allegations. 

Nunez had most recently been working as director of programming and external affairs for the Miami-Dade LGBTQ+ Allied Chamber of Commerce. Reports state that his profile was removed from the organisation’s website shortly after the arrest became public.