Brock Long’s improper use of FEMA staff, SUVs included Hawaii pineapple plant tour, investigation says

By Lisa Rein
September 26

FEMA administrator William “Brock” Long used government vehicles and staff on 40 trips for personal reasons, including during a family vacation in Hawaii, despite official warnings the practice was unauthorized, an internal investigation found.

Long’s improper use of government resources cost taxpayers $94,000 in staff salary, $55,000 in travel expenses and $2,000 in vehicle maintenance, the Department of Homeland Security’s inspector general determined. The Washington Post obtained a redacted copy of the inspector general’s report before it was made public Wednesday.

A spokeswoman for the Federal Emergency Management Agency did not respond to a request for comment.

DHS declined to address questions about the report, referring to a joint statement issued last week by Long and Homeland Security Secretary Kirstjen Nielsen, who said she had ordered Long to repay the government “as appropriate.” A DHS official said they have not yet agreed on the precise amount.

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