Tucson Standard

U.S. Congressman Juan Ciscomani (AZ-06) has formally requested an investigation into the use of federal funds by Catholic Community Services’ Casa Alitas in Tucson, Arizona. In a letter to Department of Homeland Security (DHS) Inspector General Joseph Cuffari, Ciscomani called for a comprehensive review following reports of potential corruption and misuse of taxpayer dollars.

Pima County received $21,827,581 through the Federal Emergency Management Agency’s Shelter and Services Program (SSP) in Fiscal Year 2024, with most funds allocated to Casa Alitas' migrant operation. Recent allegations suggest that at least $200,000 may have been misused due to improper procurement processes and possible overpayments to vendors. Reports also indicate that Casa Alitas' fund usage rate is significantly higher compared to other SSP grant recipients.

“Amid allegations of corruption and the misuse of taxpayer dollars, I am calling for a thorough and comprehensive investigation into the operations and use of funds by Casa Alitas,” said Ciscomani. “It is critical that we ensure transparency and accountability in the use of federal funds meant to address the ongoing migrant crisis. Congress, and the American people, deserve transparency and anyone who has taken advantage of these programs must be held accountable.”

Ciscomani's request includes:

1. A review and accounting of all federal dollars provided to Pima County through SSP and its predecessor program, the Emergency Food and Shelter Program for Humanitarian Relief (EFSP-H), dating back to 2020.

2. An audit specifically focused on funds given to Catholic Community Services' Casa Alitas.

3. An examination of all documented procurement processes by Casa Alitas.

4. A comparison analysis of cost per migrant per day for all SSP awarded funds.

5. An assessment determining if Casa Alitas complied with SSP award rules and regulations.

6. A review evaluating whether FEMA has adequate oversight controls in place to prevent misuse of SSP funds.