Exclusive: Little Rascals star Brandon Hall defiantly refuses to return excess donations despite GoFundMe backlash
Fundraiser grew beyond its goal
According to Hall, he planned to close the fundraiser once it reached that amount. The campaign was later mass-reported for alleged fraud by people who criticized his request for donations despite his vow of poverty, he says.
Why Hall says he needs help
He says he did not intend to seek money for equipment such as a tractor or sawmill. Hall also disputes the idea that his vow of poverty means he refuses paid work, describing it as a “lay vow.” Hall says his family’s monthly overhead is roughly $300 and that he seeks paid work when an immediate financial need cannot be met another way.
Hall defends keeping donations
Asked why he would not return the amount above his goal after GoFundMe cleared the campaign, Hall said he had never considered what would happen if donations exceeded the target. He also says he never promised to return any overage.
Key points
- Hall says he will keep donations above his original $2,000 goal.
- The fundraiser raised more than $26,000 and was cleared by GoFundMe after an investigation.
- Hall says the extra money could help his family pursue a self-sufficient lifestyle.
- Public scrutiny has renewed attention to Hall’s 2020 arrest.