High Museum of Art COO Brady Lum Sentenced to One Year in Prison

Federal authorities secured a prison term for a former senior executive at the High Museum of Art in Atlanta on Monday. Brady Lum, 60, received a 12-month sentence from U.S. District Judge Michael Brown for his role in a multi-year financial theft.

Lum served as the museum's chief operating officer before his departure. He pleaded guilty earlier this year to one count of felony theft. Prosecutors stated that he embezzled more than $600,000 from the institution during his tenure. The money was taken from various accounts over a period of several years.

The sentencing hearing revealed a disagreement between the two legal teams. Assistant U.S. Attorney Jordan Scholz asked the court for an 18-month term, citing the substantial nature of the loss and the position of trust Lum held. In contrast, Lum's defense attorney argued for probation or a split sentence with a period of supervised release. The defense noted that Lum had already paid back the full amount of the money he stole.

Judge Brown sided closer to the government's request but imposed a lighter term than the 18 months sought. The judge said he was troubled by the breach of trust but acknowledged the restitution. "I am going to give him a break because he has paid it all back," Brown said. "But I still think there is some amount of time that I need to give him for the amount and the time that was involved."

Lum addressed the judge before the ruling was delivered. "I stand ready to fully accept whatever decision you deem fair," he said. He also thanked the judge for allowing him to speak with his family and friends before the sentence was handed down. He asked for a chance to return to the life he had known.

The High Museum of Art issued a statement confirming the sentence. The museum said it was pleased that Lum had accepted responsibility and paid the full amount owed. The institution noted that Lum would not return to work there and that the funds would be used to cover the costs associated with the investigation and the loss.

Lum will report to federal custody after the completion of his community service hours, which the judge allowed him to fulfill before beginning his prison term. The sentence concludes the federal case against Lum, who was formerly the CCO of the American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists.