EB-5 Charges Prove Need for Independent Investigation

Sioux Falls, SD (March 31, 2016)-

Joop Bollen, the controversial former head of SDRC Inc., has been charged with crimes related to the administration of the infamous EB-5 program.

​”We always knew there was more to the story. Hopefully, this will finally pry open the veil of secrecy that has surrounded this issue since Richard Benda’s death in 2013. South Dakotans deserve to know what exactly occurred which caused the waste and mismanagement of taxpayer money and stain on South Dakota’s reputation,” said Suzanne Jones Executive Director for the South Dakota Democratic Party.

Joop Bollen will be arraigned in Brown County tomorrow April 1.

“Democrats called for a more thorough investigation in 2014, but were rebuffed by Republicans at every turn. Today’s disclosure proves the Republicans were wrong then, as they are wrong now. We need independent oversight. EB-5 proves it. GEAR UP proves it. How many tragedies have to occur before we take conflict of interest seriously?” Jones Pranger asked.

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