Apple's Head of Security Accused of Exchanging iPads for Gun Licenses
In a striking turn of events, Apple's Head of Global Security, Thomas Moyer, found himself at the center of an alleged bribery scheme. According to a recent indictment, Moyer is accused of offering concealed-carry gun permits for Apple's security team in exchange for iPads, valued at approximately $70,000, for local cops. This revelation stems from an investigation led by the Santa Clara District Attorney's office.
Initially, the office announced that Undersheriff Rick Sung and Captain James Jensen had reportedly withheld concealed-carry permits from ordinary applicants, instead using an illicit scheme to pressure individuals into offering bribes in exchange for the permits. The accusations against Moyer involve the promise of 200 iPads in exchange for the approval of four concealed-carry licenses. Apart from Moyer, an insurance broker named Harpreet Chadha was also implicated for offering luxury box seat tickets worth $6,000 for San Jose Sharks hockey games in exchange for permits.
The investigation, which has been ongoing for two years, led to charges being laid against Jensen in a separate, yet related, case. This accusation arose just days after allegations of the deputies' concealed-carry permit misconduct became public knowledge. According to the District Attorney's office, Moyer and Sung were made aware of an impending search warrant for the Sheriff's department's concealed-carry permit records, prompting them to back off from their plans.
Apple refused to comment on the matter, but Moyer's attorney, Ed Swanson, issued a statement asserting his client's innocence. Swanson described Moyer as a respected Navy veteran who has worked at Apple for 14 years. However, the District Attorney's office presented little supporting evidence, with the defendants scheduled for arraignment on January 11, 2021.
As this develops into a story of alleged corruption within law enforcement, the question arises as to why Moyer, a high-ranking executive at one of the world's most powerful corporations, would circumvent proper channels to acquire concealed-carry permits. The crime of bribery carries serious penalties in California, as outlined in Penal Code 67. In a remark pertaining to bribe seekers, District Attorney Jeff Rosen asserted, "Bribe seekers should be reported to the District Attorney’s Office, not rewarded with compliance."
The allegations against Apple's Head of Global Security, Thomas Moyer, involve claims of promising 200 concealed-technology devices, specifically iPads, in exchange for the approval of four concealed-carry licenses. The future of Moyer's role at Apple and the outcome of the investigation will be closely evaluated by the tech industry and public. In light of these events, it's essential to reiterate District Attorney Jeff Rosen's statement: "Bribe seekers should be reported to the District Attorney’s Office, not rewarded with compliance."
