The following is from a press release CoinWeek received from the ANA this evening:
“American Numismatic Association Executive Director Larry Shepherd has been placed on administrative leave during an organizational review process, President Tom Hallenbeck has announced.”
That’s it, no other information was released, no details or reasons were given.
New ANA Governor Greg Lyon did make a few statements on the PCGS message boards in response to some questions, His posted comments are below.
“Unfortunately, I cannot add much to this discussion beyond what was released in the press release. As many of you are aware, there are significant legal reasons why details cannot be released. This decision was not taken lightly and was clearly in the best interest of the ANA.
At this point, an investigation will be conducted by a third-party group and any further decisions will be made by the board subsequent to that investigation.
I am saddened that this had to be one of the first actions I took after joining the board. I welcome any questions — which will be answered as best possible — through this thread or private messages.”
The “Third Party Group” Mr Lyon referred to is Employer’s Resources of Colorado which handles HR issues.
Mr Lyon went on to say that “There was a board vote taken, as the ANA Press Release states. This is not a political move — and has nothing to do with the convention (other than timing), but rather one based on evidence presented to the board.”
In response to another comment Mr. Lyon continued,“I would love to provide you more details, but because of legal reasons, I cannot. The Board felt that there was significant reason to take this action but details cannot be shared.”
CoinWeek will be contacting as many sources as we can to follow-up on this situation to see if we can provide additional details as to the nature of the issues involved and the reasons the Board felt it necessary to take this action at this time.