Brendan Carr, the current Chair of the US Federal Communications Commission (FCC), was reportedly a member of a non-traditional Alcoholics Anonymous (AA) group for approximately ten years, beginning in his late teens. A Guardian investigation, published today, states that some former members of the Washington DC-based Midtown group have likened it to a "cult."
The Midtown group attracted young individuals seeking help with addiction, sometimes at their parents' insistence. However, former members allege that the group's leader, Michael Quinones, who died in 2007, exerted significant control over their lives, including where they resided, worked, and studied. Allegations from former members include sexual exploitation of teenage girls and young women, who were reportedly pressured into relationships and sexual activity with older male members.
Individuals who knew Mr. Carr during his time in Midtown stated they do not believe he participated in inappropriate behaviour. One former member described him as providing a "safe respite" in an environment where others faced "forced relationships, restrictive diets" and psychological manipulation. Another former member referred to Mr. Carr as a "victim" of Midtown, stating he was "never among" the predators.
In response to the Guardian's inquiries, an FCC spokesperson for Mr. Carr stated that he "did not engage in any of the allegedly illegal conduct or abusive behavior you reference." The spokesperson also denied any suggestion that Mr. Carr was aware of the alleged illegal or abusive conduct.