Luminar Claims Founder Austin Russell is Avoiding Subpoena in Bankruptcy Case
Luminar says its founder Austin Russell is dodging subpoenas and is not cooperating during the bankruptcy proceedings.
They got back six computers but still need his company phone and a digital copy of his personal phone. Lawyers say Russell’s team misled them about his location during the holidays. They want the court to allow them to serve papers to him by mail or email.
Russell says he has been cooperative, claiming he wants his personal data protected. His lawyer stated that Luminar wouldn’t confirm this, so they will follow court rules for handling data. Luminar’s court filing is a big turn in the fast-moving bankruptcy case.
They are trying to sell parts of their business and have plans for a semiconductor sale. Before declaring bankruptcy, Russell tried to buy Luminar through his new company. His lawyer said they aim to rebuild and bring value to those involved with the company.
Luminar started looking for information from Russell in May after he resigned. They were considering possible legal claims against him. In November, the board set up a Special Investigation Committee to look into matters involving current and past leaders of Luminar.
Russell got in touch on Christmas Eve after lawyers tried to reach him about returning the company’s equipment. He wanted assurances that his private data would remain safe. Luminar arranged for a technician to go to Russell’s home on New Year’s Day, but security turned the person away. Russell claimed he was asleep when they arrived.
Lawyers for Luminar then attempted to serve him a subpoena but faced the same resistance. They believe Russell is trying to avoid the legal process.