Weekly News from Senator Gustavo Rivera!

 

SENATOR RIVERA IN THE COMMUNITY

EID MUBARAK!

Senator Rivera wishes everyone celebrating Eid in the Bronx and across New York a peaceful and harmonious holiday. Eid al Fitr Mubarak to all who are celebrating!

This week, Senator Rivera held his third blood drive at Fordham University in collaboration with the American Red Cross.

Senator Rivera wants to thank the American Red Cross and Fordham University for their partnership in organizing a successful event with his office. He also wants to thank Fordham's President Tania Tetlow, Vice President for External Affairs Travis Proulx, and Dr. Keisha Shay, Co-Director of the Bronx Research Institute for Community Solutions, for helping make the event possible.

The American Red Cross in Greater New York's commitment to serve makes a critical difference in the lives of New Yorkers facing desperate situations. Become a blood donor today.

SENATOR RIVERA HOLDS NEW HEALTH COMMITTEE MEETING

This week, the Senate Health Committee passed all 13 bills including Senator Rivera’s:

S.9275 or The "Gender-Affirming Care Protection Act," which will require Medicaid to cover gender-affirming care regardless of federal funding.

S.9388 or The Local Input for Community Healthcare Act (LICH) Act, which a general hospital seeks to close entirely or a unit that provides maternity, mental health or substance use care.

S.7460, which will establish at least 4 maternal-infant care centers in areas of need to provide care to mothers and babies suffering from drug withdrawal.

This week, Senator Rivera joined the Primary Care Development Corporation (PCDC) and Assemlymember Amy Paulin to urge his colleagues in the Senate and Assembly, as well as the Executive, to support his Primary Care Investment Act (S.1634). 

Senator Rivera strongly believes that primary care is the foundation of our healthcare system and is key to prevention and early detection. He proudly sponsors this bill so our state can increase investment in primary care spending by insurance companies, especially in the face of significant federal healthcare funding cuts. 

This week, Senator Rivera stood alongside hundreds of New Yorkers and advocacy organizations as they traveled to Albany to show their support for the New York Health Act (S.3425).

During the rally, Senator Rivera reiterated that passing the New York Health Act is essential to ensure that every New Yorker can get the healthcare they need and deserve.

In addition, Senator Rivera stated that it is necessary that we bring more New Yorkers, including more of his colleagues, into this coalition so our State can finally prioritize people’s health over profit while saving New Yorkers money.

Watch Senator Rivera's remarks during the rally here.

SENATOR RIVERA INTRODUCES HIS OVERSIGHT OF HEALTH PROGRAMS ACT

This week, Senator Rivera spoke with Katelyn Cordero from Politico about a new bill he recently introduced called the "Oversight of Health Programs Act" (S.9512).

This bill would establish a routine process for the Legislature to request and receive records from private contractors that help operate publicly subsidized health programs. 

What will the bill do? This bill will codify enumerated powers that the Legislature already has under the state constitution and in doing so, it will:

• Establish a definition of “trade secret,” modeled after current federal law.
• Create a process for record requests from vendors providing services in conjunction with the operation and delivery of a public health program. 
• Authorize designated members of the Legislature to request and receive records from either the Commissioner of Health (COH) or a vendor. 
• Establish clear deadlines for vendors to submit records asked by the requesting party. 

Learn more about this new bill here.

SENATOR RIVERA JOINS THE 'LA VOZ WITH MARIEL FIORI' SHOW

This week, Senator Rivera spoke with Mariel Fiori on La Voz Radio to discuss the New York Health Act (S.3425).

During the show, Senator Rivera and Ms. Fiori spoke at length about the bill and its necessity as we face severe federal Medicaid cuts. He also discussed why it is important for New Yorkers to join this fight to guarantee affordable and comprehensive care to all New Yorkers.

They also briefly spoke about the Senator's Affordable Drug Manufacturing Act, which will allow New York State to enter partnerships to produce and distribute generic drugs such as insulin. This measure was included in the Senate One House proposal released last week.

Listen to the interview in Spanish here.

UPCOMING COMMUNITY EVENTS & RESOURCES

WEDNESDAY 04/08: SATELLITE OFFICE HOURS AT THE MOSHOLU MONTEFIORE COMMUNITY CENTER!

SATURDAY 4/4: FREE ANNUAL SPRING EGG HUNT EVENT AT THE WILLIAMSBRIDGE OVAL

NYC JOB OPPORTUNITIES AND RESOURCES THROUGH THE DEPARTMENT OF CITYWIDE ADMINISTRATIVE SERVICES

Working for the City of New York offers rewarding career opportunities serving our communities. With over 80 city agencies and thousands of job types, there is something for everyone in city government. This newsletter by the Department of Citywide Administrative Services (DCAS), provides updates about job opportunities, upcoming civil service exams, available internships and fellowships, and career events.

DCAS helps support the recruiting and hiring needs for city government. Our Office of Citywide Recruitment partners with educational institutions and community-based organizations across the five boroughs to share information about city government jobs and the civil service examination process. Our NYC Jobs Newsletter will provide you with the news and information you need to take the next step in your career.

Upcoming Events

Please join us for our DCAS upcoming events. Select events based on your career interests, education, and experience.

NYC DCAS Summer Internship Hiring Expo 

Thursday, March 26, 2026. 10 a.m. – 2 p.m. 1 Centre Street, North Mezzanine, New York, NY 10007

Ready to land that dream internship? Join us at the NYC DCAS Summer Internship Hiring Expo, where representatives from various city agencies will be recruiting and interviewing for summer internships. Serve New Yorkers at one of 80+ city agencies. Build a fulfilling career and go to work with purpose every day. Let DCAS help you find your calling. Please register for only the morning or afternoon session. 

Register here.

Women’s History Month CityTalk: Leading the Change: Women Shaping a Sustainable Future  

Tuesday, March 31, 2026. 1 p.m. – 2:15 p.m. Virtual event, online via Microsoft Teams 

Join the NYC Department of Citywide Administrative Services (DCAS) and partner agencies for a Women’s History Month CityTalk panel discussion highlighting the initiatives, impact, and contributions of women in NYC civil service. Inspired by this year’s national theme, Leading the Change: Women Shaping a Sustainable Future, this event explores how women are advancing equity, strengthening communities, and building systems that support long-term success across New York City.   

Register here.

NYC Government Careers: Civil Service 101 Information Session   

Wednesday, April 8, 2026. 5:30 p.m. – 7 p.m. Virtual event, online via Microsoft Teams. 

Learn how you can work for the City of New York, build a fulfilling career, and go to work with purpose every day. This information session will tell you everything you need to know to find the opportunities aligned with your career goals - whether you are entry-level or an experienced professional. We'll cover the civil service system, civil service exams, and the applications process. 

Register here.

NYC Government Careers: Civil Service 101 Information Session 

Thursday, April 9, 2026. 2:30 p.m. – 4 p.m. Hybrid event, 1 Centre Street, North Mezzanine, New York, NY 10007 and online via Microsoft Teams. 

Learn how you can work for the City of New York, build a fulfilling career, and go to work with purpose every day. This information session will tell you everything you need to know to find the opportunities aligned with your career goals - whether you are entry-level or an experienced professional. We'll cover the civil service system, civil service exams, and the applications process. 

Register here.

About Literacy in Community: Since 1996, LINC has worked to harness the power that exists in every community to make literacy a value and right of all children and promote educational equity. Early literacy is critical for children’s lifelong social and health benefits. Our two-generational Community Literacy Model connects families with each other and with resources that already exist in the community to surround children with literacy-rich environments inside and outside of home. When a child reads, a community succeeds!   

UPCOMING SERVICE CHANGES AFFECTING THE 4 TRAIN THROUGH SEPTEMBER

For the latest updates, customers are encouraged to:

• Visit https://www.mta.info
• Use the MyMTA app
• Call 511
• Sign up for MTA real-time alerts and the Weekender Newsletter

Prior Felon Pleads Guilty to Drug Trafficking and Firearm Offenses

 

Scott Oranje, 52, of Mary Esther, Fla., pleaded guilty in federal court to possession with intent to distribute more than 40 grams of fentanyl, possession of a firearm in furtherance of a drug trafficking offense, and possession of a firearm by a convicted felon. 

“Mr. Oranje was caught with 300 grams of fentanyl, approximately 150,000 potential deadly doses,” said Drug Enforcement Administration Special Agent in Charge Daniel Escobar, Tampa Field Division. “Our North Florida communities will be safer with this criminal off the streets.”

The plea was announced by John P. Heekin, United States Attorney for the Northern District of Florida.

U.S. Attorney John Heekin said: “Fentanyl has had an absolutely devastating impact on our communities for several years, which is why President Donald J. Trump recently designated the exceptionally deadly drug a Weapon of Mass Destruction. Identifying, targeting, and incapacitating the peddlers of this poison on our streets remains a top priority for my office. We will continue to deliver successful prosecutions like this one to fulfill the promise made by President Trump and Attorney General Pam Bondi when they launched Operation Take Back America to devote the full might of the Department of Justice toward dismantling the drug trafficking operations that have plagued our communities for far too long.”

Court documents reflect that on November 10, 2025, law enforcement officers intercepted a package addressed to Oranje’s residence. The package contained over 300 grams of fentanyl. Law enforcement conducted a controlled delivery at Oranje’s residence. Oranje took possession of the package and entered his condominium. Shortly thereafter, law enforcement officers executed a search warrant on the residence. Oranje did not answer the door requiring officers to breach the door. Following the breach of the front door, Oranje fled through the back patio, in possession of the fentanyl. Oranje was taken into custody. Law enforcement searched the residence and located a digital scale, various narcotics paraphernalia, owe sheets, and multiple firearms. Oranje had previously been convicted of First-Degree Residential Robbery and sentenced to state prison in California on or about July 30, 2018.

Oranje faces consecutive minimum mandatory sentences of five years’ imprisonment on Counts 1 and 2, for a total minimum mandatory sentence of ten years, and up to a maximum of life imprisonment. A term of imprisonment could be followed by up to a five-year term of supervised release. Thus, if Oranje were to violate any conditions of his release, he could potentially face an additional period of incarceration related to violating his supervision.        

The case involved a joint investigation by the Drug Enforcement Administration, the Okaloosa County Sheriff’s Office, and the United States Postal Inspection Service. Assistant United States Attorney Christopher C. Patterson is prosecuting the case.

Sentencing is scheduled for June 29, 2026, at 10:00 a.m. at the United States Courthouse in Pensacola before United States District Judge M. Casey Rodgers.

This case is part of Operation Take Back America, a nationwide initiative that marshals the full resources of the Department of Justice to repel the invasion of illegal immigration, achieve the total elimination of cartels and transnational criminal organizations (TCOs), and protect our communities from the perpetrators of violent crime.

Bronx Borough President Vanessa L. Gibson - JOIN US: Fire Safety & Education Workshops

 

Dear Neighbor, 

In response to the recent fires in our borough, we are continuing our fire safety education workshops in partnership with the FDNY and local community organizations.

These workshops focus on fire prevention, safety tips, and the steps families can take to protect their homes and loved ones. We encourage everyone to participate and to share this vital information with friends, family, and neighbors.

Warm Regards,

Vanessa L. Gibson

Bronx Borough President

For real-time updates and event highlights, remember to follow us on Social Media:



FACEBOOK: @BronxBp

INSTAGRAM: @Bronxbpgibson

TWITTER: @BronxBp

Social Media Influencer Pleads Guilty To Investment Adviser Fraud

 

United States Attorney for the Southern District of New York, Jay Clayton, announced that KENNETH THOM, a/k/a “K$,” a/k/a “K Money,” pled guilty before U.S. District Judge Edgardo Ramos to investment adviser fraud.  THOM is scheduled to be sentenced by Judge Ramos on June 25, 2026.  

“Kenneth Thom pretended online to be a successful investor and adviser when in fact he was a suspended broker and grifter,” said U.S. Attorney Jay Clayton.  “He recruited social media followers, convinced them to invest with him, and then stole their money.  Our Office will continue to work with our law enforcement partners to protect investors from fraud no matter where they seek their investment advice.  Especially on social media, we remind investors to always protect themselves from fraud by verifying the credentials of those they invest with, and to always protect investments through due diligence.” 

According to the allegations contained in the Indictment and other information in the public record:

In May 2006, THOM passed securities licensing examinations and registered as a broker with the Financial Industry Regulatory Authority (“FINRA”).  In or around January 2011, FINRA suspended THOM’s broker registration after he failed to pay an arbitration award to an investor.  THOM also admitted around that time to the FBI that he had commingled that investor’s money with his own money in a brokerage account that THOM controlled and lost most of the money through unsuccessful trading.  THOM further admitted that when the investor sought to withdraw her funds, he did not tell the investor that he had lost her money and instead invented fake excuses and then ignored the investor altogether.

After being suspended by FINRA, THOM turned to social media and promoted himself online as a successful trader.  Using the monikers “K$” and “K Money,” THOM described himself as a “Wall Street veteran,” a “luminary,” and a “beacon of knowledge,” and he used his online platforms to sell trading courses and trade suggestions to his followers.  One of THOM’s platforms was a Facebook group called, at relevant times, the “K$ Trading Group” (the “K$ Facebook Group”), in which THOM posted the results of his purportedly successful trades.

Beginning in late 2023, THOM invited members of the K$ Facebook Group to participate in “shared accounts” that THOM would manage in exchange for a percentage of the trading profits.  THOM eventually raised nearly $800,000 from approximately 67 clients.  Of this sum, THOM invested only approximately $350,000, diverting most of the remainder for his own personal use, including on travel, dining, and luxury goods.

Of the $350,000 that THOM invested, he lost more than $250,000 trading options, for a net loss of approximately 73% between in or around March 2024 and March 2025.  To hide these losses, THOM published false performance updates showing significant gains.  For example, on or around July 3, 2024, THOM posted in the K$ Facebook Group that each of his three purported shared accounts was positive year-to-date, with returns ranging from 4% to 120%.  In fact, as of the close of the preceding trading day, THOM had lost approximately 31% of the client funds he invested to date.

In or about January 2025, the name of the K$ Facebook Group was changed to “AYBABTU”—an acronym for the Internet meme “all your base are belong to us”—and THOM stopped responding to clients.

THOM, 42, of Westfield, New Jersey, pled guilty to investment adviser fraud, which carries a maximum sentence of five years in prison.

The maximum potential sentence in this case is prescribed by Congress and provided here for informational purposes only, as the sentencing of the defendant will be determined by a judge.

Mr. Clayton praised the outstanding work of the FBI.  Mr. Clayton also expressed appreciation for the assistance of the U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission.

This case is being handled by the Office’s Securities and Commodities Fraud Task Force.