Statement regarding article in the Washington Post Nov 02 November 6th 2009
Dear Friends and Supporters of Centro Familia,
As reported in the Washington Post on Monday, November 2, 2009, the FBI made an informal inquiry of a contract employee at Centro Familia. The article that appeared is yet another example of sensational journalism by Ms. Spivack and factually inaccurate. Below are the facts as we know them:
- Last week, an FBI agent came to Centro Familia accompanied by an employee of the Inspector General’s Office. The agent did not present a subpoena nor demand any information and asked to speak with one of our contractors who is a part-time bookkeeper for Centro Familia. After discovering the contractor was not at the office, they immediately left without further questions.
- On Thursday, October 29, 2009, unnamed sources informed the media that the FBI was investigating Centro Familia. In a conversation with the FBI Agent who came to Centro Familia, our attorney learned that she is acting independently and that this is a very preliminary inquiry at the request of a county official. The FBI did not come to Centro Familia in an official capacity and to our knowledge they are not conducting an official investigation. She was surprised that her presence had been leaked to the media.
- The Inspector General’s last report in May described alleged susceptibility for abuse but he did not state that he had, in fact, found any evidence of waste, fraud or abuse. Centro Familia provided extensive documentation to the Inspector to show that all questioned expenditures were legitimate. They have had plenty of time to investigate this case, to present his findings to the County Attorney for further action and to this date, he has not made public any clear accusations with evidence to prove them.
- In September, Centro Familia’s contracts with the Department of Health and Human Services (DHHS) were renewed. This is strong evidence that the County Attorney and the DHHS were satisfied with the services and documentation provided by Centro Familia.
- We believe this latest news is nothing more than a political attempt to discredit and destroy our organization which will result in loss of services to a minority group of citizens in our community. Centro Familia stands firm that we have done absolutely nothing wrong and we have challenged anyone to show us where we have committed waste, fraud or abuse with our funds.
- Centro Familia is confident the results of any investigation will end with the same result and we look forward to having the record and our reputation cleared. We ask for your continued support during these trying times would enjoy any opportunity to discuss your questions or concerns in person. We will keep you informed as this matter progresses.
Please feel free to call me or Dave Anderson the President of our Board of Directors, if you have any further questions.
Pilar Torres
Executive Director
