Retired NYPD Sergeant Indicted on Bribery Charges Linked to NYC Migrant Shelter Contracts

A retired New York City police sergeant, Edouardo St. Fort, was arrested in Massachusetts on Tuesday after being indicted on federal bribery charges tied to migrant shelter security contracts in New York City, according to court records.

The indictment, filed in federal court in Brooklyn, remains under seal. Official records indicate St. Fort faces charges involving conspiracy to commit offenses against the United States, bribery involving federally funded programs, and violating laws prohibiting interstate travel for unlawful activities.

St. Fort's company, Fort NYC Security, has received over $7 million in city contracts to provide security services, including at a Bronx hotel used as a homeless shelter, with most contracts awarded on an emergency, non-competitive basis, city records show. The company has served as a subcontractor to nonprofit organizations BHRAGS Home Care Corp. and Bronx Family Network Inc., which provide homeless services. BHRAGS Home Care was also named in a federal search warrant, while a spokesperson for the group declined to comment on the case.

The investigation references alleged bribes or kickbacks concerning New York City Council member Farah Louis and her sister, Debbie Louis, an aide to New York Governor Kathy Hochul. Authorities confirmed that Debbie Louis has been placed on leave. Both Farah Louis and Debbie Louis did not respond to requests for comment.

A City Council spokesperson stated the council treats any potential misconduct with utmost seriousness, emphasizing the need for a swift and fair federal investigation to resolve the matter.

As of Tuesday, the bribery case remained sealed and St. Fort had not publicly responded to the allegations. The federal investigation is ongoing.