Taxpayer-funded nonprofits founded or supported by Congressman Chaka Fattah (D-Philly) have paid out at least $5.8 million to associates, according to a tax record review by the Philadelphia Daily News.
The tax records, which span from 2001 to 2012, show that the money went to many associates of Rep. Fattah, including political operatives, ex-staffers, and their relatives.
For the past few years, criminal investigators have been digging into Fattah’s nonprofit history. The FBI has subpoenaed financial documents and questioned his associates. In addition, three people with ties to the organizations were convicted of federal crimes.
Some of the groups that reportedly received money from Fattah include the Educational Advancement Alliance, Philadelphia Safety Net, American Cities Foundation, and Caribbean-American Mission for Education.
Fattah, however, says he did nothing wrong.
“The way I look at it is, a person in my position, anything that you’re involved in is up for review,” Fattah said. “When you have discretion, people are interested to make sure that you are exercising that appropriately.”
The Daily News also asked the Congressman whether he thought he’d be indicted.
“No one has a crystal ball,” he said. “I think that we have to see how it plays out. I know that there are people that like to rush to a conclusion, but after seven years, I’m not sure any of us should rush to anything.”
Fattah currently represents the 2nd Congressional District.
2 Responses
Fattah makes Fumo look like a real piker! Like to see Fattah do as much or more time than Fumo!
http://www.newsworks.org/index.php/local/nw-philadelphia/73391-armond-james-avoids-mudslinging-in-uphill-battle-for-fattah-seat-
Armond James is looking better and better as an alternative to Fattah.
Philadelphia and Pa. Republicans should take notice and support him…if for no other reason than to give Fattah fits in competitive voter turnout in District City and suburbs on election day. Especially the suburbs where Fattah is reviled.