Jason Lee Cleared of Wrongdoing After ‘Wild ’N Out’ Investigation

Stockton Vice Mayor Jason Lee did not misuse government funds when he booked a Wild ‘N Out tour stop in the California city, an independent review determined.

The blogger-turned-politician had been accused of using $50,000 in public funds — allegedly without approval — to help pay for the comedy event in his hometown, as previously reported.

The city launched an investigation in August 2025 and enlisted independent law firm Hanson Bridgette LLP, which ultimately determined Lee did not violate any state laws or the city charter when he used the funds to cover remaining costs for the comedy show, Fox 40 Stockton reported on Jan. 9.

“The facts show that any personal interest was likely aligned with City interest,” Hanson Bridgette said. “At most, the facts reflect a possible lack of awareness of the need to consider ethical standards even when one’s personal interests are aligned with official duties.”

Lee responded with a statement posted to Facebook on Jan. 9. He said he had been defamed and “there will be consequences.”

In a follow-up post on Jan. 10, the vice mayor said he remained focused on his work.

“This incident has electrified my resilience to transform my city on many fronts. I’m coming back to the work energized, focused, encouraged, optimistic and still willing to work with any of my colleagues who are aligned with the same vision. That said, it’s also FOOT ON NECK ALL YEAR LONG!”

The Hollywood Unlocked founder grew up in Stockton, and was elected to the city government in 2024.

He has appeared on the TV version of MTV’s Wild ‘n Out sketch comedy and battle rap show created and hosted by Nick Cannon.

Last spring, Lee used his connections to bring the show’s tour to Stockton. But the event almost skipped Stockton over financial issues. Instead of canceling the show, $50,000 was used from the city’s Risk Mitigation Fund to pay for the show.

But there were questions as to why city funds were being used for an entertainment event. In an Aug. 5 news release, city spokesman Tony Mannor said “serious concerns” had been raised about Lee.

“Reports of a sitting councilmember actively engaged between city staff and event promoters raise serious concerns about the appropriateness of such involvement and whether boundaries between policymaking and administration were crossed,” the release said.

Lee denied wrongdoing and said he was the target of a conspiracy. He added that he was trying to provide a service to Stockton residents when he booked the comedy tour stop.

“Let’s be clear: Nick and the ‘Wild ’N Out’ team came to Stockton as a favor to ME — to turn this city up and prove that we deserve world-class partnerships like Nick, Rip Michaels, and 5120 Entertainment. The attacks on our hardworking city staff for simply doing their jobs? Beyond disappointing,” he wrote.