A prominent Family Office had hired an individual to function in a low level capacity based on a sterling recommendation. The individual was with the family for one year, performing well in his role. Everything seemed to be perfect; the employee enjoyed working for the Family Office and the members of both the family and the Family Office appreciated his contributions. So it came as a bit of surprise when the employee requested a letter of recommendation from the head of the Family Office. Surprise turned to shock when the family learned that the letter was mandated by the state as part of the terms of his parole. As it turns out, the individual not only had a criminal history, but had been convicted of murder.
This history was never identified prior to the individual being hired into a role that included regular interaction with the family. Under TorchStone guidance, as well as legal counsel, the Family Office immediately separated from the individual through an amicable process and established new protocols for more thorough screening of all current and future employees and contractors.
