The Charity Commission Damian Aspinall, son of the founder of two major wildlife conservation charities, as part of a statutory inquiry that has now been running for more than four years.
The regulator is investigating whether charitable funds were improperly used at both the Aspinall Foundation and the Howletts Wild Animal Trust, which operates wildlife parks in Kent. The inquiry was first opened in 2021, and interim managers were appointed last summer due to concerns about potential misconduct and mismanagement.
Suspension Confirmed After Media Reports
Following reports in The Telegraph, the Commission confirmed that Aspinall has been suspended as a trustee of Howletts Wild Animal Trust. Interim managers have also been appointed to oversee specific areas of the Aspinall Foundation’s operations.
A Commission spokesperson said fresh concerns identified late last year prompted a new phase of investigation, adding that inquiries are ongoing and progressing “at pace”.
Allegations Under Examination
According to The Telegraph, allegations include:
- Use of charity staff to work at Aspinall’s family home in Kent
- Charity funds allegedly used to pay for domestic staff, including a chef, maid, chauffeur, housekeeper, caretaker and security personnel
- Claims that charity money funded chauffeur-driven cars, club‑class flights and taxis
- Reports that luxury vehicles, leased by one of the charities, were used for personal trips by Aspinall and his former wife
These allegations predate the 2021 hiring of Carrie Johnson, who joined the Aspinall Foundation as senior communications officer.
Charity Response
The Aspinall Foundation declined to comment, citing the ongoing inquiry.
Background
The Aspinall Foundation and Howletts Wild Animal Trust support conservation work in the UK and internationally, including projects in Congo, Gabon, Indonesia, and Madagascar. The charities were founded by John Aspinall, a casino owner and close associate of Lord Lucan.
The Charity Commission will publish a full report once the inquiry concludes, detailing findings and any regulatory action taken.
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