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Feds Probe Alleged Bribery Scheme Involving NYC Council Member, Hochul Aide
Investigation centers on migrant shelter provider contracts and potential kickbacks to politicians
Mar. 31, 2026 at 4:18am
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Federal prosecutors are investigating whether a New York City Council member and her sister, who serves as an aide to Governor Kathy Hochul, accepted bribes or kickbacks in connection with the appropriation of city funds to a migrant shelter provider. The probe also involves the husband of a state Assembly member who chairs the Brooklyn Democratic Party.
Why it matters
The investigation highlights ongoing concerns about corruption and misuse of public funds, especially related to the influx of asylum seekers in New York City and the lucrative contracts awarded to service providers. It also raises questions about the influence of local political machines in securing government business.
The details
According to a search warrant, federal prosecutors are seeking evidence of possible criminal violations involving Councilmember Farah Louis, her sister Debbie Louis who works for Governor Hochul, and Edu Hermelyn, the husband of state Assembly member Rodneyse Bichotte Hermelyn. The warrant indicates the three may have received benefits in exchange for actions taken on behalf of BHRAGS Home Care Inc., a Brooklyn-based service provider that has received over $200 million in contracts to run migrant shelters since 2022.
- The search warrant was signed on March 19, 2026.
- Debbie Louis was placed on leave last week after Governor Hochul learned of the federal corruption investigation.
The players
Farah Louis
A New York City Council member, a Brooklyn Democrat, who is under federal investigation.
Debbie Louis
The sister of Councilmember Farah Louis, and an aide to Governor Kathy Hochul, who has been placed on leave due to the federal probe.
Edu Hermelyn
The husband of state Assembly member Rodneyse Bichotte Hermelyn, who also chairs the Brooklyn Democratic Party, and is named in the federal investigation.
BHRAGS Home Care Inc.
A Brooklyn-based service provider that has received over $200 million in contracts to run migrant shelters since 2022, at the center of the federal corruption investigation.
Rodneyse Bichotte Hermelyn
A state Assembly member who chairs the Brooklyn Democratic Party, and is the wife of Edu Hermelyn.
What’s next
Prosecutors will continue to investigate the allegations and determine whether to bring criminal charges against any of the individuals involved.
The takeaway
This case highlights ongoing concerns about corruption and the potential misuse of public funds, particularly in the context of the influx of asylum seekers in New York City and the lucrative contracts awarded to service providers. It also raises questions about the influence of local political machines in securing government business.
