| The investigation found the Browns used nonprofit funds to pay themselves improper compensation from government grants ($285,600.93) and make personal purchases ($256,367.49). These purchases included meals, season tickets, retail goods, and hair styling. Investigators also identified purchases for lodging and travel, including a trip to Jamaica taken by the Browns.
Additionally, the Browns diverted Lifeline funds to other entities ($84,890.21). The majority of this money went to a church called Lifeline to a Dying World Ministries founded by DeAndre Brown. He currently serves as its pastor.
DeAndre Brown is the founder of Lifeline to Success and currently serves as the Executive Director of the Shelby County Office of Re-Entry. His spouse, Vinessa Brown, is Lifeline’s Executive Director and manages its day-to-day operations, including payroll and finances.
In addition to the misappropriation noted above, investigators also identified at least $755,307.81 in questionable disbursements made by the Browns for which no supporting documentation could be provided. These included CashApp transfers, Amazon and eBay purchases, restaurant charges, and utility bill payments. Investigators could not determine if these purchases were in furtherance of Lifeline’s mission, therefore any or all of these questionable disbursements could be deemed misappropriated.
Based upon this investigation, in August 2025, the Shelby County Grand Jury indicted both DeAndre Brown and Vinessa Brown on three counts of theft over $250,000, two counts of theft over $60,000, two counts of computer fraud over $60,000, two counts of computer fraud over $10,000, two counts of money laundering, and one count of official misconduct.
“This investigation underscores the importance of strong financial oversight, especially for nonprofit organizations that rely on public funding,” said Comptroller Mumpower. “Boards of directors must be engaged and active to ensure funds are used appropriately and in service of the mission.”
To view the investigative report, go to tncot.cc/doireports. |
