In a significant legal development, Thomas Moyer, Apple’s global head of security, has been acquitted of bribery charges related to concealed firearm permits. The case, which has spanned several years, concluded with a Santa Clara County Superior Court jury finding Moyer not guilty.
Background of the Case
The allegations against Moyer originated in 2020 when he was accused of attempting to bribe Santa Clara County officials to secure concealed carry weapon (CCW) permits for Apple employees. Prosecutors claimed that Moyer offered to donate 200 iPads, valued at approximately $70,000, to the Sheriff’s Office in exchange for these permits. This purported arrangement was said to involve Undersheriff Rick Sung and Captain James Jensen, who allegedly withheld the permits until they received something of value.
The case was initially dismissed in 2021 by Superior Court Judge Eric Geffon, who cited a lack of evidence and described the bribery allegations as pure speculation. Judge Geffon noted that Apple had received verbal confirmation in June 2018 that the permits would be issued, undermining the prosecution’s claims of a quid pro quo arrangement. He stated, There is simply no evidence that suddenly, on February 8, 2019, Moyer was told or believed that the [concealed-weapons] permits would not be issued or released to the executive protection team unless the Sheriff’s Office received something in exchange.
Reopening of the Case
Despite the dismissal, the Santa Clara District Attorney’s Office appealed the decision, leading to the case being reopened in 2023. A three-judge state appeals court panel ruled that the case should proceed, emphasizing that a promise to donate to a public official’s office could constitute a bribe. District Attorney Jeff Rosen stated, Moyer is right back where he should be—on the trial calendar and charged with bribery.
Trial and Acquittal
The trial culminated in April 2025, with the jury delivering a not guilty verdict. Moyer’s attorneys expressed gratitude for the jury’s decision, stating, We are deeply grateful to the jury for bringing this misguided prosecution to an end. Tom Moyer is innocent and should never have been charged. Mr. Moyer is grateful for the support he received throughout this ordeal from Apple and, especially, from his family.
Implications and Reactions
The acquittal brings to a close a protracted legal battle that has drawn significant attention due to Moyer’s high-profile position at Apple. The case also highlighted the complexities involved in the issuance of CCW permits in Santa Clara County. While Moyer has been cleared of all charges, the situation has raised questions about the practices within the Sheriff’s Office and the criteria for granting such permits.
Apple has maintained that an internal investigation found no wrongdoing on Moyer’s part. The company has not provided further comments following the acquittal.
Conclusion
Thomas Moyer’s acquittal marks the end of a challenging period for the Apple executive. The case underscores the importance of due process and the necessity of substantial evidence when levying serious charges. As Moyer looks to move forward, the tech community and legal observers will likely reflect on the broader implications of this case for corporate governance and law enforcement practices.
