Allegations of Corruption Surround Brooklyn Nonprofit BHRAGS Home Care Inc.

A federal indictment has been filed against Roberto Samedy, executive director of BHRAGS Home Care Inc., and Jean Ronald Tirelus, the former board chairman, revealing a complex web of alleged corruption involving the nonprofit organization. BHRAGS, which has received over $200 million in public contracts since 2022, is accused of engaging in bribery, embezzlement, and other fraudulent activities, including failing to file tax returns for several related nonprofits, leading to their blacklisting by the IRS.

The indictment alleges that Samedy and Tirelus conspired to siphon approximately $1.3 million from public funds intended for vulnerable populations. U.S. Attorney Joseph Nocella stated that the defendants “worked together to loot public funds from an organization devoted to serving vulnerable New Yorkers.” Both individuals have pleaded not guilty and face up to 20 years in prison if convicted. The indictment also implicates other entities, including Fort NYC Security, controlled by retired NYPD Sgt. Edouardo St. Fort, and 1-800 Furniture, led by businessman Miguel Jorge, in a scheme involving kickbacks and bribes.

BHRAGS Home Care Inc. has seen a significant increase in government funding, receiving $122 million in grants in 2024, a 54% rise from the previous year. Despite being flagged for concerns by the Department of Homeless Services and placed on a Corrective Action Plan, BHRAGS continued to receive substantial financial support from city officials. Notably, Brooklyn City Council member Farah Louis allocated $450,000 to BHRAGS over five years, while former City Council Speaker Adrienne Adams provided $375,000 from her discretionary budget. Federal agents recently raided the homes of Louis and her sister, although neither has been charged with wrongdoing.

Samedy reportedly received a salary exceeding $376,000, while his wife, Sherline Montoute, was paid over $160,000 as head of human resources. The organization’s operations have transitioned from the Consumer Directed Personal Assistance Program (CDPAP) to providing services for migrants, which has raised further scrutiny regarding its financial practices. In 2024, BHRAGS distributed over $68 million in salaries to workers, primarily within the CDPAP framework.

Critics have raised concerns about the lack of accountability and oversight in the nonprofit sector, particularly regarding organizations that receive substantial public funding. The ongoing investigation into BHRAGS highlights potential systemic issues within the management of public funds and the relationships between nonprofits and political figures.

The legal proceedings against Samedy and Tirelus are expected to unfold in the coming months, with implications for other individuals and organizations connected to BHRAGS. The investigation may prompt broader discussions about nonprofit governance and the allocation of public resources in New York City.

• “Tirelus and Samedy steered business to companies controlled by St. Fort and Jorge in exchange for bribes and kickbacks,” — Department of Justice

• “We’re like a doctor’s office,” — Roberto Samedy, Executive Director, BHRAGS Home Care Inc.