This article was produced in collaboration with Court Watch, an independent outlet that unearths overlooked court records.
A high profile streetwear and sneakers entrepreneur who has met Vice President Kamala Harris allegedly had an unlikely connection to the world of underground finance through a multi-million dollar Chinese money laundering ring, according to a court record reviewed by 404 Media. Armored security companies, closets full of cash, and narcotic traffickers were all part of the scheme, according to the record.
James Regis Whitner, Jr. does business under the umbrella The Whitaker Group, which owns retail brands Social Status, APB, and A Ma Maniére. At these boutique stores customers can buy Air Jordans and various other pieces of clothing. On his Instagram, Whitner regularly posts about his business, speaking engagements about entrepreneurship, and fashion.
“Hustle until there's nothing left,” Whitner’s Instagram bio reads.