You probably know Lenny DePaul as the guy who doesn't blink when he's tracking down the most dangerous people in America. For years, he was the face of the U.S. Marshals on shows like Manhunters: Fugitive Task Force and Hunting Hitler. But lately, there’s a new name popping up next to his: Ellie DePaul.
If you’re looking for a dramatic Hollywood scandal, you won’t find it here. Honestly, the story is way more practical than that. Ellie DePaul is Lenny’s wife and business partner, and together, they’ve transitioned from the world of high-stakes manhunts to the world of high-performance gear.
Who is Ellie DePaul?
People get confused because Lenny's life has been so public for decades. He spent over 30 years in law enforcement, including time in the Secret Service and leading the NY/NJ Regional Fugitive Task Force. But Ellie isn't a federal agent. She’s the creative engine behind their joint venture.
While Lenny was out making 75,000 arrests over his career, Ellie was building a background in design. Specifically, she has deep roots in shoe design and manufacturing. It’s that specific "maker" DNA that allowed them to launch their brand, O Dark 30.
The brand name comes from the military slang for "way too early in the morning," which is basically when Lenny’s old teams used to kick down doors.
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Why the partnership works
It’s a classic case of "he knows what’s broken, and she knows how to fix it." Lenny spent years wearing bulky, uncomfortable tactical gear that didn't move right when he was chasing a suspect. Basically, he knew the pain points of the job.
- Lenny's Role: The field tester. He knows where a pocket needs to be so you can grab a magazine without looking.
- Ellie's Role: The architect. She takes those rough ideas and turns them into actual garments using military-grade fabrics.
They started brainstorming this during the COVID-19 lockdowns. You know how everyone else was baking sourdough? They were apparently looking at fabric swatches and drawing up blueprints for pants that didn't rip when you hopped a fence.
The Reality of Life After the U.S. Marshals
Transitioning from "Chief Inspector" to "Fashion Entrepreneur" isn't a typical career path. Lenny has talked openly about the adrenaline dump that happens when you retire from a job that’s 100 mph every day. Working with Ellie on O Dark 30 seems to be his way of staying connected to that world without actually having to carry a badge 24/7.
But it hasn't all been smooth sailing in the public eye.
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In late 2024 and early 2025, Lenny's name hit the tabloids for some personal drama. A woman named Lisa claimed she had an affair with the former agent, alleging she didn't know he was married. She even went so far as to contact Ellie directly to "alert" her. While Lenny has mostly stayed quiet on the specifics of his private life during these headlines, it's clear that he and Ellie have remained a unified front in their business ventures.
Breaking Down O Dark 30
If you look at what they’re actually selling, it’s not just for cops. They’re targeting hunters, construction workers, and people who generally beat up their clothes.
The stuff they make is weirdly specific. For example, Ellie designed pants with dual-compartment pockets. It sounds small, but if you’re carrying a phone and a tool (or a mag), having them not clank together is a big deal. They use materials that are technically "tactical," but the goal is to make it look like regular workwear.
What most people get wrong about them
A lot of fans think Lenny DePaul and Ellie DePaul are just another celebrity couple slapping a name on a cheap t-shirt. It’s actually the opposite. Ellie’s background in manufacturing means they aren't just drop-shipping generic stuff from overseas. They’re involved in the actual prototypes.
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Ellie has been quoted saying that "every step reflects Lenny’s DNA." It’s a bit of a marketing line, sure, but it’s also literal. The gear is built based on the specific gear failures Lenny experienced over thirty years in the Secret Service and the Marshals.
Where are they now?
As of early 2026, the duo is still pushing the brand into retail markets. Lenny still does the occasional podcast and remains a regular at law enforcement speaking engagements. He’s also kept his Private Investigator license active in New York, which keeps him tethered to the "hunt," even if he's mostly hunting for the best way to stitch a reinforced knee.
Honestly, the biggest takeaway from their partnership is how they've managed to pivot. Most reality stars just ride the fame until it fades. These two used the visibility to build a tangible product.
Key Insights for the Fan or Consumer
If you're following the DePaul family or thinking about trying their gear, here’s the reality:
- It’s a family business. This isn't a massive corporation; it’s basically Lenny and Ellie running the show.
- The gear is high-end. Because Ellie insists on specific manufacturing standards, it’s not "budget" clothing. You're paying for the durability.
- The "Manhunter" brand is the foundation. Everything they do is viewed through the lens of Lenny’s career. If you liked the show, you’ll probably like the design philosophy.
To see the fruits of their collaboration, you can check out their latest collections at their official site, https://www.google.com/search?q=ODark30.com. It’s the best way to see how Ellie has translated Lenny’s "field knowledge" into actual wearable tech. Keep an eye on their social media for updates on new tactical drops, as they tend to release small batches rather than massive retail hauls.