RI Republican Chairman Responds to Felony Indictment of Democratic Party Chairwoman’s Husband in Alleged $20 Million Fraud Scheme

WARWICK, RI — Rhode Island Republican Party Chairman Allyn Meyers today called for transparency and accountability following the felony indictment of Michael Perik, husband of the Rhode Island Democratic Party Chairwoman, in connection with an alleged $20 million corruption and fraud scheme involving taxpayer-funded educational assistance.

According to an October 7, 2026, indictment filed in Jefferson County, Ohio, Perik faces multiple felony charges, including engaging in a pattern of corrupt activity, aggravated theft, bribery, telecommunications fraud, and other offenses.

Prosecutors allege that Perik and his associates participated in a scheme involving Eastern Gateway Community College that improperly diverted millions of dollars in public educational funds, including federal Pell Grants intended to assist financially disadvantaged students. The indictment also alleges improper payments to public officials, falsification of records, and fraudulent financial arrangements.

“These allegations are absolutely disgraceful,” said Chairman Meyers. “We are talking about more than $20 million allegedly taken from taxpayers, students, and educational programs intended to help those who need assistance the most. If proven, this represents a staggering betrayal of public trust.”

Meyers also called upon Rhode Island Democratic Party leadership to address the matter publicly.

“While the Democratic Party Chairwoman has not been charged with any wrongdoing, Rhode Islanders deserve transparency when allegations of corruption of this magnitude involve the immediate family of our state’s top Democratic Party official. Accountability should never depend on political affiliation.”

“Rhode Islanders are tired of corruption, political connections, and the misuse of taxpayer dollars. The Rhode Island Republican Party will continue to demand the highest standards of integrity and accountability from those in positions of public trust.”

Perik and his co-defendants are presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty in court.

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