ADA Audit Clears Security Actions Following June Protest Removals

The report determined that onsite security personnel acted appropriately during the June 5 incident. Investigators found no evidence that the ADA contacted the New Orleans Police Department, clarifying that officers present at the venue were hired as private contractors for event security. While the committee found no fault in the removal process, it identified significant communication lapses between staff, security, and attendees throughout the disruption.

Over a three-month investigation, the independent committee interviewed 28 witnesses, including the protesters themselves, and analyzed digital evidence ranging from videos to internal correspondence. In response, CEO Chuck Henderson and Board Chair James Tai announced a series of procedural overhauls. These include revamped training for event staff, clearer enforcement of the Attendee Code of Conduct, and refined communication protocols to ensure future conferences remain focused on the organization’s core advocacy for diabetes research and patient support.