Lauren Hofstatter
A mother who publicly alleged that Grey Bull Rescue delayed the return of her daughter from Jordan during the 2026 Israel, Iran war evacuation operations unless approximately $1 million was raised, allegations Grey Bull and founder Bryan Stern denied.
Dr. Lauren Hofstatter is a mother who publicly alleged that Grey Bull Rescue, the Tampa-based veteran-led nonprofit that partnered with Rep. Nancy Mace on Israel evacuations in March 2026, delayed returning her daughter from Jordan unless approximately $1 million was raised. Hofstatter called the conduct "embezzlement and extortion."
What Happened
Hofstatter was quoted in the Jerusalem Post and Jewish Rhode Island saying: "I don't think her safety was compromised, but I do think she was held hostage, and I do think it is embezzlement and extortion."
These are unproven allegations against Grey Bull Rescue. The nonprofit's founder and CEO, Bryan Stern, denied the accusation. Grey Bull briefly suspended operations following the reports. Rep. Mace defended the organization against the claims.
Hofstatter's allegations were reported by the Jerusalem Post and Jewish Rhode Island and circulated in coverage of Mace's second Middle East trip in March 2026.