Missing Contract Plagues Department of Homeland Security Investigation
A significant investigation into the Department of Homeland Security (DHS) has hit a major roadblock, with a critical contract reportedly going missing. This development is casting a shadow over an appointment made by former “chief of staff” Corey Lewandowski, acting under the purview of DHS head Kristi Noem, and has sparked a broader inquiry into the agency’s contracting processes.
The investigation is focusing on the appointment of an external contractor, Kara Voorhies, who was allegedly paid an eye-watering $19,000 per week for her role within the department. However, documentation substantiating this arrangement has yet to surface, according to reports.
Alarms Raised Over Contractor Appointment
The circumstances surrounding Voorhies’ appointment have raised serious concerns among investigators. An internal watchdog within the DHS has flagged the situation, suggesting it could potentially warrant criminal prosecution.
Sources indicate that it remains unclear what specific duties Voorhies was contracted to perform. However, department officials have stated that contractors in similar positions are not typically involved in awarding contracts or making significant spending decisions on behalf of federal agencies. This apparent deviation from standard practice has triggered alarm bells for the inspector general and lawmakers alike.
The investigation is still in its nascent stages, and it is yet to be determined whether the inspector general’s office will pursue criminal charges. It’s important to note that the inspector general’s office does not possess the authority to bring criminal charges directly.
Scope of the Investigation
The overarching probe is designed to scrutinise “any potential improprieties in the contracting process” and to uncover any evidence of “personal enrichment of top officials.” This broad mandate suggests a thorough examination of how contracts are awarded and managed within the department, as well as the conduct of senior personnel.
The Elusive Contract
The search for information regarding Voorhies’ contract has proven exceptionally difficult, with the watchdog agency unable to locate the relevant files. Officials at the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA), where Voorhies was reportedly appointed, have been unable to find her contract, and investigators are actively seeking it.
According to individuals familiar with the matter, senior FEMA officials were informed that Voorhies was receiving compensation as high as $19,000 per week. At this rate, her annual earnings could have approached approximately $1 million.
Timeline and Lewandowski’s Involvement
The exact start date of Voorhies’ tenure at FEMA remains unclear. However, officials suggest she was brought into the department by Corey Lewandowski. She reportedly served within the department for the majority of Kristi Noem’s leadership term and departed this month.
Individuals close to Lewandowski, who continues to serve as a special government employee, have indicated that he has expressed his expectation of receiving a presidential pardon should any criminal case arise from the inspector general’s investigation. A representative for Lewandowski has publicly stated that his client vehemently denies any wrongdoing.
Broader Concerns Surrounding DHS Leadership
This developing situation adds to a series of controversies and scrutiny surrounding DHS leadership and contracting practices. Previous reports have highlighted other concerning incidents, including:
- Allegations of “Fake” Bonus Checks: DHS Secretary Kristi Noem has reportedly admitted to issuing what were described as “fake” bonus checks, seemingly for a photo opportunity.
- Accusations of Deception: An analyst has shared “bad news” for Kristi Noem and an alleged associate, suggesting they could potentially face charges.
- Congressional Misinformation: Kristi Noem has been accused of providing false information to Congress regarding “top secret” airport security vulnerabilities.
The missing contract and the high weekly payment to Kara Voorhies underscore the urgent need for transparency and accountability within the Department of Homeland Security. The ongoing investigation aims to shed light on these complex issues and ensure the integrity of federal contracting processes.
