Brady Lum, the former chief operating officer of the High Museum of Art, was arraigned on Apr. 14 on a federal charge alleging theft from programs receiving federal funds. Prosecutors say Lum stole more than $600,000 from the museum by altering invoices and approving personal purchases through his position.
The case raises concerns about financial oversight in non-profit institutions and highlights the responsibilities entrusted to those in leadership roles at major cultural organizations.
“While entrusted to run the High Museum, Lum allegedly used the museum’s money as his personal slush fund and thereby betrayed one of Atlanta’s civic crown jewels,” said U.S. Attorney Theodore S. Hertzberg. “Our office will move with swift precision to prosecute individuals who abuse positions of power and trust to enrich themselves at the expense of non-profit institutions.” Hertzberg holds the position of United States Attorney for the Northern District of Georgia, according to the official website.
According to court documents, Lum served as COO from January 2, 2019 until December 9, 2025. During this period he allegedly made unauthorized purchases including luxury guitars, music equipment and lessons, as well as woodworking tools. Investigators say he concealed these expenses by submitting altered invoices and spreading costs across different accounts within museum finances.
FBI Atlanta Special Agent in Charge Marlo Graham said: “We expect officials of one of our communities’ historic institutions to serve as stewards — not to loot it. The FBI remains unwavering in its pursuit to hold accountable those who exploit their positions for selfish purposes.” The Federal Bureau of Investigation is leading this investigation.
The U.S. Attorney for the Northern District of Georgia serves a region covering approximately 7.5 million residents across north Georgia mountains, Atlanta suburbs and borders with Alabama and the Carolinas according to its official website. The office prioritizes prosecution against threats such as terrorism, human trafficking and civil rights violations according to its official website, enforces federal criminal laws while representing civil matters according to its official website, coordinates cases with national or international dimensions according to its official website, and acts as principal federal law enforcement agency in its district according to its official website.
Lum was arraigned before U.S. Magistrate Judge Christopher C. Bly in Atlanta. Authorities remind that charges are allegations only; Lum is presumed innocent unless proven guilty or admits guilt in court.
