Scrutiny Related to Karma Box Qualifications and Hiring Practices Deepens with Two Former Employees Now in County Custody

Several county commissioners are having internal meetings today about the Karma Box Project, while community advocates are digging through staff criminal records, as a now fired contractor Eddie Luna was arrested yesterday after he allegedly pistol whipped a woman and fired shots in the air not far from the Cares Campus.

Luna joins Mat Grimsley, previously listed as the Safe Camp supervisor at the Cares Campus for the county contracted Karma Box, in county custody.

Grimsley has been in county custody since November 22nd on a third domestic violence offense, and a $50k bond.

Luna was among several Karma Box employees to have prior charges against them being employed, including current ones, raising questions as to their suitability and qualifications for working in such difficult environments.

Commissioner Mike Clark, now the Community Homelessness Advisory Board chair, whose planned meeting earlier this month was canceled abruptly due to logistical issues, has long expressed concerns about Karma Box and its founder Grant Denton, who has faced persistent allegations of misconduct from several women in the community, that he denies.

“Karma Box Project confirms that it was made aware this morning of an incident involving a former employee,” a statement released to media yesterday indicated, raising eyebrows among community advocates due to Luna’s history and how people are hired at Karma Box.

For a while, Karma Box had its IRS 501(c)(3) tax-exempt status revoked due to failing to file required Form 990s but kept its county contract during that ordeal as well.

“We were shocked to learn of the situation. Upon becoming aware of the matter, Karma Box Project took immediate action to terminate the individual’s employment," the statement from yesterday indicated. "The organization is fully cooperating with the Reno Police Department and any ongoing investigation. Karma Box Project works closely with vulnerable populations and maintains a thorough vetting and oversight process designed to protect the individuals we serve. The safety, dignity, and well-being of our clients remain our highest priority.”

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