Prosecutors charged Valor Security and Investigations for running a fraudulent safety school that falsely certified construction workers.
ABC News reports that a shocking case unfolded in New York as prosecutors charged Valor Security and Investigations and six of its executives with allegedly running a fraudulent safety school that falsely certified thousands of construction workers as adequately trained. The alleged scheme, uncovered by Manhattan District Attorney Alvin Bragg, is believed to have resulted in severe consequences, including at least one fatality.
The charges include enterprise corruption for Valor Security and Investigations, its president, Alexander Shaporov, and five other employees. Nineteen alleged brokers, including two master plumbers, face charges of criminal possession of a forged instrument, which led to the suspension of the plumbers’ licenses.
New York City Buildings Commissioner Jimmy Oddo expressed outrage, stating, “I think every New Yorker has a right to be a little disgusted.” The department is considering revoking Valor’s license to issue safety cards. Oddo urged construction workers who received cards from Valor to seek retraining, highlighting the importance of addressing the potential risks associated with fraudulent certifications.
All defendants were arrested Wednesday morning, with court appearances expected later that day.
RELATED CONTENT: Urban Business Roundtable Spotlight: Construction Company CEO Mamon Powers Jr.
Source: Black Enterprise
