AI startup sues ex-CEO, saying he took 41GB of email and lied on résumé

Source: Ars Technica

Background

According to the 21-page civil complaint, the saga began in early 2024 when Carson allegedly sold over $1.2 million worth of Hayden AI stock without board approval. The proceeds were reportedly used to fund the purchase of a multimillion‑dollar home in Boca Raton, Florida, and multiple luxury items, including a “gold Bentley Continental” car.

Allegations of Financial Misconduct

By July, Hayden AI launched a formal investigation into Carson’s behavior. The complaint alleges that Carson engaged in unauthorized stock sales for personal gain, violating fiduciary duties to the company and its shareholders.

Investigation and Data Theft

In August, as Carson was being excluded from key company decisions, he is said to have asked an employee to download his entire 41 GB email archive onto a USB stick. The complaint claims the archive contained a large amount of proprietary information.

Termination

Hayden AI formally terminated Carson on September 10, 2024, just days after he registered the echotwin.ai domain name.

Claims About Professional Background

Beyond the alleged financial fraud, Hayden AI asserts that Carson’s entire professional background is fabricated. The complaint describes his CV as a “carefully constructed fraud,” questioning:

• The length of his U.S. military service.
• His claim of founding a company called “Louisa Manufacturing,” as listed on LinkedIn.

According to Carson’s LinkedIn profile, he completed a doctorate from Waseda University in Tokyo in 2007. The complaint states:

“That is a lie. Carson does not hold a PhD from Waseda or any other university. In 2007, he was not obtaining a PhD but was operating ‘Splat Action Sports,’ a paintball equipment business in a Florida strip mall.”