Former Maui Police Officer Pleads Guilty to Federal Civil Rights Violation

 

A former Maui Police Department officer pleaded guilty to one count of using unreasonable force against an arrestee. According to the plea agreement, on Jan. 6, 2024, Carlos Frate, 40, repeatedly tased the arrestee, even though the arrestee was not resisting or posing any threat. Frate admitted that he knew that his force was unjustified, but he nonetheless continued to tase the arrestee despite the arrestee’s pleas for him to stop.

“Officers who abuse their position of authority to inflict excessive force must be held accountable,” said Assistant Attorney General Harmeet K. Dhillon of the Justice Department’s Civil Rights Division. “The Civil Rights Division will continue to work with our law enforcement partners to investigate — and where appropriate, prosecute — alleged police misconduct.”

“Our police officers are entrusted to protect our citizens and perform their duties professionally, and it is the norm here in Hawaii that our law enforcement officers faithfully serve and protect us. In those rare instances where an officer abuses the public trust by using excessive force, that officer will be held accountable and prosecuted,” said Acting U.S. Attorney Ken Sorenson for the District of Hawaii. “This Office will continue to safeguard the constitutional rights of all of Hawaii’s citizens, including individuals under arrest.”

“We entrust our law enforcement officers with vast power and authority, and when they abuse it, they’re not just depriving victims of their civil rights, but they are also degrading the public’s trust in our criminal justice system,” said Special Agent in Charge David Porter of the FBI Honolulu Field Office. “The FBI will continue to investigate and hold accountable anyone who violates federal law, regardless of their position.”

Frate faces a maximum penalty of ten years in prison. His final sentence will be determined at a hearing scheduled for Jan. 6, 2026 by U.S. District Judge Micah W. J. Smith based on the advisory sentencing guidelines and other statutory factors.

The Federal Bureau of Investigation is investigating the case based on a referral from the Maui Police Department. The case is being prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Michael F. Albanese for the District of Hawaii and Trial Attorney Julia White of the Civil Rights Division’s Criminal Section.

Statement in Support of President Trump's Executive Order to End Cashless Bail

 

Today, Congresswoman Elise Stefanik (NY-21), Chair of the House Republican Leadership, released the following statement:

"Kathy Hochul and NY Democrats failed bail reform has been a catastrophic disaster leading to a crime crisis in New York making every family and community less safe. Again and again, Kathy Hochul has prioritized violent criminals over law abiding New Yorkers. Enough is enough. 

I strongly support President Trump’s Executive Order to end cashless bail. I will be working to lead the effort in Congress to codify this Executive Order with legislation. 

For too long, New Yorkers have suffered violent crimes and even lost their lives due to Kathy Hochul and single party Democrat rule’s dangerous anti-police, pro-criminal policies. New Yorkers want law and order and tough on crime policies to bring safety back to our great state."

State Comptroller Thomas P. DiNapoli's Weekly News - Amid Federal Funding Uncertainty, State Must Focus on Programs to Aid Seniors

 

Amid Federal Funding Uncertainty, State Must Focus on Programs to Aid Seniors

With federal funding less predictable and New York’s senior population growing, the state must ensure its own investments are reaching older adults who need help. A new report from Comptroller DiNapoli finds that even as state funding for senior services has increased, thousands remain on waitlists for in-home care, meals and other essential support, and data reporting by the New York State Office for the Aging makes it difficult to know who is being left behind or where.

“New York has an obligation to support seniors who need and qualify for in-home, meal or other support services,” DiNapoli said. “These critical services provide necessary care and help people remain in their homes and communities, while preventing more expensive institutional care. The Legislature has stepped up with more funding for the Office for the Aging, but with thousands still on waitlists and some funding going unspent, we need greater transparency and stronger tracking to make sure the state’s investment is truly reaching those who need it.”

Read More

Comptroller DiNapoli Receives Prestigious Award from National Italian American Organization

Comptroller DiNapoli was selected for the Guglielmo Marconi Award, the highest award given by the Order Sons and Daughters of Italy in America. Prior recipients of this award include a U.S. President, ambassadors, members of congress, astronauts, actors and playwrights. He was presented this award at the organization’s 59th national convention on Saturday.

“I am truly honored to receive the Guglielmo Marconi Award. I was raised by parents and immigrant grandparents who were deeply proud of being Italian Americans and believed that success would be achieved through hard work and determination,” DiNapoli said. “Thanks to their love, support and teachings, I achieved my dream of a career in public service, culminating in being elected State Comptroller of New York. It is with great pride that I accept this high honor, and I know my parents and grandparents would be so very proud of this recognition.”

Read More

New York City Industry Sector Dashboards

These dashboards follow a series of reports Comptroller DiNapoli released over the past few years tracking economic data and the effect of the pandemic on critical sectors in New York City including Tourism, Retail, Construction and more, and helping to identify areas of weakness as well as positive developments.

View Dashboards

Three Indicted in Multi-State Prescription Fraud Ring

Three individuals have been arrested on an indictment charging them with healthcare fraud, healthcare fraud conspiracy, and aggravated identity theft, with the Federal Bureau of Investigations, the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services, Office of the Inspector General, and the Office of the State Comptroller investigating the case.

Read More

Join the Office of the State Comptroller at the Great New York State Fair

The New York State Fair, a 13-day celebration of all that New York has to offer, is underway and continues through September 1. There’s something for everyone to enjoy, whether you want to see a show, try some classic fair food, or check out the animals.

The Office of the State Comptroller is also at the fair, located in the Center of Progress Building. Stop by to see if Unclaimed Funds can help you find your lost money or to learn more about the 529 College Savings Program and NY ABLE. We can also answer retirement planning and benefit questions for members and retirees of the New York State & Local Retirement System (NYSLRS). We hope to see you there!

A L S O   I N   T H E   N E W S

• Report: Thousands of N.Y. seniors languish on home care, meals waitlists despite aid boost
• N.Y. comptroller discusses report outlining health care gaps in state's rural areas
• DiNapoli honored with award from national Italian American organization
• Three arrested in multi-state healthcare fraud targeting pharmacies in the Northeast

_{Note: Some news links may require a paid subscription}

P O S T   O F   T H E   W E E K

Riverdale Main Streets Alliance - You Are Invited... RMSA Summer Social!

 

Your Are Invited to RMSA's

Annual End of Summer Social Event!

Thursday, September 4

6:30-8:30pm

Bronx Burger House

5816 Mosholu Avenue

Please join us to support the Bronx Burger House at this happy hour-like event, and connect with fellow neighbors, merchants, colleagues, and the RMSA team! There will also be special close-up card magic tricks done by local magician, Matt Martin Your Membership Makes a Difference The Riverdale Main Streets Alliance is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit that promotes a positive neighborhood environment.  Our mission is to provide community friendly “main streets” while expanding the economic growth and vitality of Riverdale. An all volunteer organization. 100% of all proceeds go to beautifying our special corner of New York City. Contact Us Email: rmsabx@gmail.org Website: www.rmsabx.org Instagram: @rmsabx Facebook: Riverdale Main Streets Alliance

New York City Council Deputy Speaker Diana Ayala and No Kid Hungry Host Summer EBT Community Event

 

Deadline to apply for Summer EBT is September 4 – visit summerebt.ny.gov to check your eligibility and apply

Deputy Speaker Diana Ayala and No Kid Hungry New York held a community education event informing families about the upcoming September 4 deadline to sign up for Summer EBT, a food benefit program that helps low-income families with school-age children buy groceries. 

Summer EBT provides eligible New York families with a one-time installment of $120 per child on their EBT cards, which can be used to pay for groceries and household essentials. Now in its second year, the Summer EBT program will provide approximately $250 million in grocery benefits for more than 2 million children in every corner of the state. New Yorkers can check their eligibility and submit an application ahead of the deadline by visiting summerebt.ny.gov.  

Rising costs are continuing to put healthy meal options out of reach for many New York families. Earlier this year, No Kid Hungry New York released survey data showing that 86% of New York City households said the cost of food was rising faster than their income. 53% of New Yorkers also reported that their debt has increased in the past year due to the cost of food. Summer EBTgrocery benefits are critical to bridge this gap and help families across New York keep food on the table.  

Photos from today’s event can be found here.  

“Food insecurity is a major and growing issue for New Yorkers, and it’s critical that our government invest in services to fight hunger,” said Speaker Adrienne Adams. “Especially with 1 in 4 children experiencing poverty, Summer EBT is a lifeline for working families during these summer months, ensuring that our youngest have what they need to stay healthy, safe, and nourished all year long. I thank Deputy Speaker Diana Ayala, No Kid Hungry, and our community advocates for working to make sure that our families are informed and can access this vital benefit.” 

 “Our city’s affordability crisis and rising costs are leaving too many families struggling to put food on the table,” said Deputy Speaker Diana Ayala. “No child in New York City should ever go to bed hungry. Programs like Summer EBT and the work of No Kid Hungry are a lifeline, ensuring that children in the Bronx and across our city get the nourishment they need to grow, learn, and thrive. I’m proud to stand with our partners to make sure all families get connected to the resources they need.”  

“Programs like Summer EBT help to ensure that every child in our area can get three healthy meals a day, which is essential to their health, learning, and well-being,” said Rachel Sabella, Director of No Kid Hungry New York. “It’s not too late to enroll, and I encourage families to check their eligibility and apply before the September 4 deadline. These programs don’t happen without leaders and advocates like Deputy Speaker Ayala, and we’re grateful for her help spreading the word to families so kids can get the food they need all year long.”  

Florida Man Sentenced to Over Six Years for Witness Retaliation Assault

 

A Florida man was sentenced to six years and 10 months in prison for assaulting an individual in retaliation for testimony that the victim provided during the assailant’s trial for his involvement in a home invasion robbery scheme.

“Instead of accepting responsibility for his criminal conduct that resulted in a 47-year sentence, St Felix physically attacked and berated a trial witness,” said Acting Assistant Attorney General Matthew R. Galeotti of the Justice Department’s Criminal Division. “Witness retaliation threatens the very foundation of our justice system, which relies on truthful witness testimony. We will aggressively prosecute any attempt to retaliate against federal witnesses.”

“Retaliation against witnesses, no matter when or where it occurs, will not be tolerated. And individuals who assault government witnesses should expect prosecution and punishment,” said U.S. Attorney Clifton T. Barrett for the Middle District of North Carolina. “I commend the agents, attorneys, and USAO staff for their commitment and excellent work on cases stemming from this series of internationally organized home invasions.”

“St Felix tried to silence the very process that held him accountable,” said Assistant Director Jose A. Perez of the FBI Criminal Investigative Division. “Retaliating against a witness strikes at the heart of the justice system. Those who think they can silence or intimidate witnesses will quickly learn the FBI will come after them.”

“St Felix led a ring of violent cryptocurrency thieves and when he was sentenced to 47 years, he physically attacked a trial witness, cowardly choosing to blame someone else for his crimes,” said Special Agent in Charge James C. Barnacle Jr. of the FBI Charlotte Field Office. “This additional prison time means he will likely be in his 70s before possibly walking free again. While we know his victims will never fully recover, we hope this sentence provides them some sense of justice.”

Remy Ra St Felix, 25, of West Palm Beach, pleaded guilty in the Middle District of North Carolina on May 6 to one count of retaliation against a witness for testimony in a criminal trial.

St Felix was charged in a nine-count superseding indictment for crimes stemming from a scheme to steal cryptocurrency during home invasion robberies. St Felix elected to go to trial and was found guilty on all counts. St Felix was subsequently sentenced to 47 years in prison. For this additional sentence, 36 months are to run concurrent to the current sentence and 46 months are to run consecutive to it. In addition to his sentence of incarceration, St Felix was sentenced to five years of supervised release.

According to court documents, the United States called a witness (“Witness-1”) at St Felix’s trial who testified about St Felix’s involvement in the home invasion robbery scheme.

On Oct. 8, 2024, after St Felix had been sentenced, Witness-1 was seated, restrained with leg shackles, a belly chain, and handcuffs, in the “booking area” of a Detention Center in Greensboro, North Carolina. St Felix was allowed out of a holding cell in the same area and assaulted Witness-1 with a series of punches, striking Witness-1 in the face, head, and body. While assaulting Witness-1, St Felix called Witness-1 a “rat” and told Witness-1 that he was responsible for St Felix’s 47-year sentence. That evening, St Felix called his mother and his girlfriend and gloated about assaulting Witness-1.

The Federal Bureau of Investigation investigated the case.

Trial Attorney Brian Mund of the Justice Department’s Computer Crime and Intellectual Property Section (CCIPS) and Assistant U.S. Attorney Eric Iverson for the Middle District of North Carolina prosecuted the case.

CCIPS investigates and prosecutes cybercrime in coordination with domestic and international law enforcement agencies, often with assistance from the private sector. Since 2020, CCIPS has secured the conviction of over 180 cybercriminals, and court orders for the return of over $350 million in victim funds.

Governor Hochul Announces Swimming Resumes at All Long Island State Park Ocean Beaches

Long Island State Park Beaches Reauthorize Ocean Access After Dangerous Surf Conditions Ease; Localized Restrictions May Be in Place If Warranted by Surf Conditions

New Yorkers Encouraged To Sign Up for Emergency Alerts via NY-Alert To Receive Real-Time Weather and Emergency Alerts During Hurricane Season  

Governor Kathy Hochul today announced swimming will resume at all Long Island State Park Ocean beaches now that rough surf conditions and flooding resulting from Hurricane Erin have mostly subsided. Visitors may encounter restrictions in place at individual beach locations if there are unsafe localized conditions.

“As Long Island State Park beaches reopen for swimming, the safety of every New Yorker and visitor remains our top priority. We urge everyone to exercise caution, follow all posted advisories and respect the guidance of lifeguards and park personnel,” Governor Hochul said. “I want to thank our extraordinary emergency services teams, parks staff and lifeguards for their swift, tireless work assessing conditions and ensuring our beaches and shoreline remain as safe as possible for everyone to enjoy.”

State Park lifeguards and staff are helping ensure a safe experience by continuously monitoring any potentially dangerous surf conditions and rip currents. Officials ask visitors to remain cautious and abide by any restrictions in place at various beach field locations.

New York State Parks Commissioner Pro Tempore Randy Simons said, “We are grateful to announce the reopening of swimming at all Long Island’s state park beaches following the impact of Hurricane Erin. The safety of our visitors remains our top priority, and we urge everyone to follow posted guidelines as we resume beach activities. A heartfelt thank you goes out to our dedicated park staff, lifeguards, Park Police, and Park Rangers for their tireless work in restoring our shores and ensuring a safe environment for all.”

For information on swimming at state parks across New York, visit parks.ny.gov/recreation/swimming.

New Yorkers are encouraged to sign up for Emergency Alerts via NY-Alert for real-time weather and emergency alerts at alert.ny.gov.

 

Gambian Man, First Non-U.S. National Convicted of Torture, Sentenced to More Than 67 Years in Prison

 

Michael Sang Correa, 46, was sentenced to 810 months in prison by Senior Judge Christine M. Arguello for the District of Colorado after being convicted of one count of conspiracy to commit torture and five counts of torture. Correa’s actions included burning victims’ flesh with molten plastic and subjecting them to repeated, vicious beatings over the course of weeks using a variety of weapons.

“Michael Correa has finally been held accountable for the brutal violence he inflicted on others,” said Acting Assistant Attorney General Matthew R. Galeotti of the Department of Justice’s Criminal Division. “The United States will not be a safe haven for individuals who seek to conceal their egregious human rights violations. We are proud to have worked with our law enforcement partners to secure this sentence, and we thank the brave victims whose testimony helped ensure that justice is done.”

“The victims of these crimes carried the weight of unimaginable suffering for years, not knowing whether they would ever see their torturer held accountable,” said U.S. Attorney Peter McNeilly for the District of Colorado. “This sentence delivers a measure of justice for them and affirms that the United States stands firmly with those whose human rights have been violated. This prosecution and sentence should serve as a deterrent for criminals who think they might escape accountability by coming to Colorado.”

“Mr. Correa’s crimes were barbaric and uncivilized; they have no place in the modern world,” said Special Agent in Charge Steve Cagen of U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) Homeland Security Investigations (HSI) Denver. “I hope this sentence can bring some kind of closure for his victims and their families. A standard was set with this trial and sentencing, Homeland Security Investigations will hunt down and bring to justice those that commit these horrific crimes.”

Evidence presented at trial showed that Correa served in an armed unit known as the “Junglers,” which reported to The Gambia’s former President, Yahya Jammeh. The jury found that, as a Jungler, Correa conspired with others to commit torture and personally tortured five victims, who were targeted based on suspicions that they had plotted against Jammeh. In today’s proceedings, several victims described the lasting physical and psychological harm that they have suffered as a result of Correa’s actions.

In March 2006, shortly after a failed coup attempt, Correa and his co-conspirators transported the victims to Mile 2 Prison, the main prison in The Gambia. Over the following weeks, the victims endured severe abuse, including beatings, stabbings, burnings, and electrocutions. One victim testified that his thigh was burned with molten plastic and that he was suspended in a bag and dropped to the ground. Another victim described being suffocated with a plastic bag over his head and having the barrel of a pistol placed in his mouth. Other victims testified to being electrocuted, beaten while hung upside down, struck in the head with a hammer or pistol, and burned with cigarettes. Testimony at trial established Correa played a central role in carrying out these acts of torture.

Ten years after these crimes, Correa obtained a visa and entered the United States in December 2016. He evaded apprehension until 2019, when ICE arrested him and placed him in removal proceedings. He was charged with torture in 2020. This is the first conviction of a non-U.S. national on federal torture charges.

The HSI Denver Field Office investigated the case, with support from HSI agents in Senegal, as well as personnel at the U.S. Embassy in Banjul, The Gambia, and the FBI Legal Attaché in Senegal. The Human Rights Violators and War Crimes Center (HRVWCC) significantly supported the case. Established in 2009, the HRVWCC furthers the government’s efforts to identify, locate, and prosecute human rights abusers in the United States, including those who are known or suspected to have participated in persecution, war crimes, genocide, torture, extrajudicial killings, female genital mutilation, and the use or recruitment of child soldiers.

Assistant U.S. Attorney Melissa Hindman and Chief of the Cybercrime and National Security Section Laura Cramer-Babycz for the District of Colorado and Acting Principal Deputy Chief Christina Giffin and Trial Attorney Marie Zisa of the Criminal Division’s Human Rights and Special Prosecutions Section (HRSP) prosecuted the case, with assistance from HRSP Historian/Analyst Dr. Christopher Hayden.

Members of the public who have information about former human rights violators in the United States are urged to contact U.S. law enforcement through the HSI tip line at 1-866-DHS-2-ICE (1-866-347-2423) or internationally at 001-1802-872-6199. They can also email HRV.ICE@ice.dhs.gov or complete its online tip form at www.ice.gov/exec/forms/hsi-tips/tips.asp