Thursday, March 11, 2010

Kirk on Alexi Contributor/Bank Client Fraud Charges


Congressman Mark Kirk issued the following statement regarding today’s news that top Giannoulias contributor and Broadway Bank client Nick Giannis was charged with bank fraud:

“The check-kiting scheme conducted by a top Giannoulias contributor and Broadway Bank client appears to be part of a disturbing pattern of reckless business relationships, questionable banking practices and potentially illegal activity,” Congressman Kirk said. “Alexi Giannoulias should return the massive $119,800 in Giannis campaign contributions given Giannis was caught attempting to leave U.S. jurisdiction.”

Background

· According to the Chicago Sun-Times, Giannis contributed $115,000 to Citizens for Giannoulias between 2005 and 2008. (Chicago Sun-Times, “Boston Blackie's owner hit with bank fraud charges,” 3/11/2010)

· Federal election records show Giannis contributed $4,800 to Alexi for Illinois.

· According to the Chicago Tribune, Giannis secured at least $6 million in mortgages from Broadway Bank. (Chicago Tribune, “Bank clients beef up campaign war chest,” 10/10/2006)

More. Tribune. 'Charges against restaurateurs latest headache for Giannoulias':
In court today, prosecutors told Judge Adam Bourgeois that Nick Giannis was arrested on the border near Detroit, trying to flee to Canada. Chris Giannis and a Boston Blackie's employee, Andy Bakopoulos, appeared in bond court after surrendering.

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