Edward Y. Kim, the Acting United States Attorney for the Southern District of New York, announced that Robert Piaro, treasurer of several political action committees (PACs), has pleaded guilty to telemarketing wire fraud. The charges stem from a scheme in which Piaro defrauded donors through false and misleading statements about how their contributions would be used. The plea was entered before U.S. District Judge Arun Subramanian.
Acting U.S. Attorney Edward Y. Kim stated, "Robert Piaro deceived hundreds of thousands of donors through false statements and misrepresentations about how contributions to his PACs would be spent. Piaro’s fraudulent actions not only undermined the trust of donors but also exploited their interest in supporting certain causes for his own personal gain. Today’s plea highlights this Office’s dedication to holding accountable those who misuse political organizations to defraud and mislead the public."
According to court documents and statements made in court, PACs are entities registered with the Federal Election Commission that may collect money to advocate for or against specific causes and political candidates.
From 2017 until December 2022, Piaro operated four PACs: Americans for the Cure of Breast Cancer, the Association for Emergency Responders & Firefighters, the US Veterans Assistance Foundation, and Standing By Veterans. He raised millions from donors nationwide by falsely claiming donations would support specific legislation, educate lawmakers, and fund research—actions he did not intend to carry out.
Individuals who believe they are victims of Piaro's fraud are encouraged to contact USANYS.PACFraud@usdoj.gov or the FBI at 1-800-CALL-FBI or tips.fbi.gov for more information.
Piaro, aged 74 from Fredonia, Wisconsin, pleaded guilty to one count of wire fraud related to telemarketing, which carries a maximum sentence of 25 years in prison. However, sentencing will ultimately be determined by Judge Subramanian on April 14, 2025.
Mr. Williams commended the FBI's investigative efforts in this case. The prosecution is being managed by Assistant U.S. Attorneys Rebecca T. Dell and Jane Kim from the Public Corruption Unit.