Julio Medina, the founder and CEO of Exodus Transitional Community in New York City, was indicted by the Brooklyn U.S. Attorney's Office on Thursday. He is accused of accepting $2.5 million in bribes in exchange for directing $51 million in COVID-19 funding to Christopher Dantzler and Weihong Hu's businesses.
Prosecutors allege that Medina received a $1.3 million townhouse in Washington Heights, a house in Clifton Park, NY, and renovations totaling $750,000. Additionally, he allegedly received over $50,000 in car payments for a luxury vehicle and $75,000 to cover personal debts.
Dantzler and Hu are also charged in the scheme. Dantzler's company allegedly received funds for bogus security services, while Hu's company ran hotels and provided catering services. Both allegedly provided cash bribes to Medina.
Medina, Dantzler, and Hu face charges including wire fraud conspiracy, honest services wire fraud, and conspiracy to violate the travel act. They could face up to 45 years in prison if convicted on all charges.