Former Greater Idaho Falls Chamber CEO Paul Baker denies ‘false and defamatory’ IFAF allegations

IDAHO FALLS, Idaho (KIFI) – Paul Baker, the former CEO of the Greater Idaho Falls Chamber of Commerce, publicly denounced allegations Monday by a local podcast about his actions and financial management at the Chamber.

In a statement released through his attorney, John Malek, Baker “denied these allegations and any suggestion of financial wrongdoing or other misconduct,” calling recent claims made on the IFAF Podcast "false and defamatory."

Baker stepped down from his position as CEO in July after public scrutiny regarding his ties to Cristie Stone. Stone, the former Portneuf Valley Soccer Club president, was charged in June with felony grand theft following an internal audit that uncovered financial irregularities.

On recent episodes of the IFAF Podcast, hosts Mike Nelson and Karley Morgan openly speculated about Baker’s potential involvement with the soccer club’s finances, his relationship with Stone, and his oversight of Chamber funds.

According to Malek, Baker initially held back from taking public action to protect the Chamber's standing.

“[Baker] exercised restraint in an effort to protect the important work and reputation of the Greater Idaho Falls Chamber of Commerce and to avoid unnecessarily escalating an ongoing public dispute," states Malek.

However, according to Malek, the "false and defamatory" allegations have continued. Baker is now calling for a full retraction, a public apology, and a formal correction from the podcast hosts.

The Chamber's Board of Directors released a statement in July that "to date, the Board has not found any evidence that Chamber funds have been misappropriated." The Chamber's finances are currently undergoing an independent audit by the accounting firm WIPFLI.

Baker’s attorney said his client appreciates those in the community who have extended him support and is looking at available legal remedies to respond to the attacks.

Editor's Note: This is a developing story. Local News 8 has reached out to both Malek and the hosts of the IFAF Podcast for comment, and will provide further updates and coverage as they respond.