Federal Indictment Details

Federal officials arrested four individuals on Tuesday following an indictment that alleges a widespread bribery and kickback scheme involving a Brooklyn-based nonprofit. The defendants are identified as Ronald Tirelus, Roberto Samedy, Miguel Jorge, and Edouardo St. Fort.

Tirelus, Samedy, and Jorge were scheduled for arraignment in U.S. District Court in Brooklyn on March 31. St. Fort, who was apprehended in Boston, is expected to face arraignment in Brooklyn at a later date.

Allegations of Embezzlement and Fraud

Prosecutors allege that the defendants embezzled more than $1.3 million from a nonprofit organization that provides home care services for the elderly and operates homeless shelters. This organization has historically received millions in Medicaid payments and New York City funding.

According to the indictment, the scheme spanned from August 2020 to January 2024. Tirelus and Samedy allegedly misled the nonprofit’s board into wiring $800,000 to a shell company controlled by Tirelus under the guise of a joint-venture affordable housing investment. Meanwhile, St. Fort and Jorge are accused of securing contracts for their security and maintenance businesses through bribes and kickbacks.

Investigation Into Public Officials

Federal prosecutors are also investigating potential corruption involving prominent public figures. Reports indicate that investigators are looking into whether Brooklyn Council Member Farah Louis, her sister Debbie Louis—an aide to Governor Kathy Hochul—and Edu Hermelyn, husband of Assembly Member Rodneyse Bichotte-Hermelyn, accepted bribes or kickbacks.

A search warrant signed on March 19 suggests that authorities are examining whether these individuals received benefits in exchange for actions taken on behalf of BHRAGS Home Care Inc. This nonprofit expanded its operations in 2022 to include emergency migrant shelters and has since secured over $200 million in city contracts.

Response to the Investigation

  • Governor Hochul’s Office: A spokesperson confirmed that Debbie Louis was placed on leave after the office was notified of the federal investigation.
  • City Council: A spokesperson stated that the Council is monitoring the situation and emphasized that New Yorkers deserve confidence in their government.
  • Status of Officials: As of now, Farah Louis, Debbie Louis, and Edu Hermelyn have not responded to requests for comment.

The investigation also reportedly focuses on communications between these officials and Edouardo St. Fort, a retired NYPD sergeant. Records indicate that St. Fort’s company, Fort NYC Security, was awarded a $3 million contract by the Department of Homeless Services in 2023.