Politically-connected Bronx nonprofits embroiled in legal battle after takeover attempt
ALBANY — A pair of Bronx homeless service providers with hefty city contracts and political connections are embroiled in a nasty legal battle after an attempted merger deal fell through.
In a lawsuit, Aguila Inc. is accusing the leadership of fellow nonprofit Neighborhood Association for Inter-Cultural Affairs of committing fraud and trying to sidestep state law by making it appear as if Aguila agreed to a proposed affiliation even though the group’s board of directors never gave approval.
The group is also asking N.Y. Attorney General Letitia James' office to probe claims that NAICA leaders “knowingly committed egregious acts of fraud and misrepresentation in an attempt to compel the acquisition and control of Aguila.”
Aguila board members say the mastermind behind the failed coup is ex-con Richard Izquierdo Arroyo, the grandson of outgoing Assemblywoman Carmen Arroyo (D-Bronx).
