Federal probe into Ohio charter schools: Money trail of jobs, illegal immigration fees

Source: WEWS Cleveland

An exclusive 5 On Your Side investigation revealed a federal probe into Ohio charter schools involving a money trail of illegal immigration fees, as well as other payments to individuals living overseas.

... Auditors found 19 Turkish immigrants were paid nearly $13,000 for what they called "illegal immigration fees." Ucan said the schools began recruiting foreign teachers out of necessity.

... A Horizon Science Academy school in Dayton signed a lease agreement that sends $600,000 over five years to the property's owner living in Turkey. The practice of spending Ohio school tax dollars overseas is raising concerns among leaders of an Ohio teachers union.

... A spokesperson for the Ohio Attorney General's Office, which is charged with collection of unpaid fees, confirmed that Concept Schools resolved the unpaid funds just hours before our investigation aired.

Read more: http://www.newsnet5.com/dpp/news/local_news/investigations/exclusive-5-on-your-side-investigation-uncovers-federal-probe-into-ohio-charter-schools