Chilean National Convicted in Home Invasions

Chilean National Convicted in Home Invasions

by | Apr 30, 2025 | Regional News
Michigan Department of Attorney General Press Release banner

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE:
April 30, 2025

Media Contact:
Danny Wimmer

Chilean National Convicted in Oakland County Home Invasions

LANSING – Yesterday, a Chilean national was convicted by an Oakland County jury in the 6th Circuit Court for committing a string of home invasions targeting affluent homes throughout Oakland, Wayne, and Kent Counties, announced Michigan Attorney General Dana Nessel. Ignacio Ruiz-Saldias, 29, was found guilty of one count of Conducting a Criminal Enterprise, a 20-year felony, and three counts of Conspiracy to Commit Second-Degree Home Invasion, a 15-year felony, for his role in home invasions taking place in February of 2023 in Ada Township, Grosse Pointe Farms, Rochester, and Rochester Hills.

The widely publicized and highly orchestrated home invasions Saldias participated in typically occurred when the homes were vacant, utilized techniques to thwart alarm systems, and employed extensive precautions to avoid personal identification on home security camera systems and by forensic analyses of crime scenes. Losses from similar break-ins in recent years fitting this pattern measure in the millions of dollars, as money, jewelry, other high-value items, and safes have been stolen from affected properties.

“These home invasions were not random – they were deliberate, highly organized, and had a significant impact on the families and communities involved,” Nessel said. “I am grateful to the jury, as well as the FORCE Team and task force who made this conviction possible. We will continue to work together to protect Michigan residents and hold accountable any individuals connected to these sophisticated criminal enterprises.”

Ruiz-Saldias was charged while in custody at the Hamilton County Jail in Hamilton County, Indiana, where he was convicted on separate home invasion-related charges.

Home invasions connected to this alleged crime ring continue throughout Southeast Michigan and the Department of Attorney General’s investigation, in partnership with law enforcement partners throughout the State, remains ongoing. The investigation that ultimately led to this conviction of Ignacio Ruiz-Saldias was conducted by a task force established by the Oakland County Sheriff’s Office and specifically, in addition to the Attorney General’s FORCE Team, the police departments of Bloomfield Hills, Bloomfield Township, Shelbyville (Indiana), Carmel (IN), the Grosse Pointe Farms Department of Public Safety, and the Kent County Sheriff’s Department.

Sentencing for Ruiz-Saldias is scheduled for June 16th.
Oakland Together 40 Under 40 Class of 2025

Oakland Together 40 Under 40 Class of 2025

by | Apr 30, 2025 | Regional News

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County Executive Coulter Announces Oakland Together 40 Under 40 Class of 2025

Post Date:04/30/2025 1:10 PM
  • Oakland County Executive Dave Coulter announced the 2025 class of the Oakland Together 40 Under 40, recognizing young professionals under 40 for their impact in public service, innovation and leadership across diverse industries.
  • The 2025 class includes influential leaders such as Michigan Lottery Commissioner Suzanna Shkreli, WXYZ-TV Sports Director Brad Galli, Restaurateur Ryan Eli Salter, Motown Museum Curator Drew Schultz and 52-3 District Court Judge Laura Polizzi, each noted for their contributions to justice, media, the culinary and entertainment industry, the arts and community development.
  • This marks the 13th year of the Oakland Together 40 Under 40 program, with honorees selected by a panel of leaders and celebrated throughout the year at county events.

 

Pontiac, Mich. – Oakland County Executive Dave Coulter, with a team of previous honorees, announced today the Oakland Together 40 Under 40 Class of 2025. They are a diverse and dynamic group of changemakers shaping the future of Oakland County. Now in its 13th year, the program highlights young professionals under 40 who are making a meaningful impact in their communities through innovation, leadership and service.

This year’s class features leaders from across industries and communities, including Michigan’s lottery commissioner, a television sports anchor, a restaurateur, a Motown Museum curator and a district court judge.

“This program continues to highlight the people who are transforming Oakland County for the better,” Coulter said. “Each year, I’m inspired by their dedication and the energy they bring to public service, the arts, education, and business. These 40 individuals embody the Oakland Together vision.”

The Class of 2025 was selected by a committee of county leaders and community members and includes entrepreneurs, engineers, educators, attorneys, nonprofit leaders, public servants and innovators. Members of the class will be honored throughout the year and will participate in key county events. 

Here are some highlighted class members:

Suzanna Shkreli, commissioner of the Michigan Lottery and resident of Birmingham, has long been a champion for vulnerable children and justice reform in Michigan. Prior to her appointment by Gov. Gretchen Whitmer in 2024, she served as director of juvenile justice reform at the Michigan Department of Health and Human Services, tackling systemic issues in youth justice. Shkreli’s public service record also includes time as Michigan’s Children’s Ombudsman and assistant prosecutor in Macomb County. She brings a global perspective to her work, having trained law enforcement on victims’ rights in Albania through the U.S. Department of Justice. A graduate of Oakland University and Cooley Law School, Shkreli’s continues to shape policies that support children, families and fairness across the state.

Brad Galli brings his storytelling talent and love for the game to living rooms across Metro Detroit as sports director at WXYZ-TV Channel 7. Since joining the station in 2011, he’s reported from locker rooms and sidelines at nearly every level of sport, from the World Series and Stanley Cup Playoffs to the PGA Tour and NCAA championships. Named Michigan Sportscaster of the Year twice and honored with multiple Emmy Awards, Galli’s deep community ties and commitment to uplifting Detroit’s athletic legacy continue to earn him fans both on and off the air. A Brother Rice and Marquette University alum, Galli lives in Birmingham with his wife and children.

Ryan Eli Salter of Royal Oak is the founder of Salt + Ko, a popular restaurant and lounge in Southfield, and Breadless, a pioneering fast-casual concept specializing in flavorful, gluten-free dining. He also leads Atrium Events Center, curating dynamic private and corporate events that help shape Southfield’s vibrant social and business community. A dedicated community leader, he serves on the Minority Business Council for the Southfield Chamber of Commerce, advocating for local entrepreneurs and minority-owned businesses. His passion for mentorship, experiential hospitality and brand innovation continues to make him a standout figure in Metro Detroit’s hospitality scene.

Drew Schultz of Clawson represents the soul of Detroit’s music scene. At just 19, he began performing with Motown legends the Four Tops, and his career has since included collaborations with the late Aretha Franklin, Stevie Wonder and Questlove. As digital media curator at the Motown Museum, Schultz works to preserve and amplify the legacy of one of the most influential musical movements in history. Through his philanthropic “Back To Class” project, he channels proceeds from original recordings – featuring legends like Dennis Coffey and the Funk Brothers – back into Detroit Public Schools music programs. An educator, writer, engineer and performer, Schultz’s work blends creativity with a deep commitment to youth, arts education and Detroit’s cultural heritage.

Judge Laura E. Polizzi of Rochester Hills brings a wealth of legal experience and community service to the bench of 52-3 District Court, where she was appointed in May 2024 by Gov. Gretchen Whitmer and won election in the fall. A former attorney handling a wide range of complex legal matters, Judge Polizzi has been named a Michigan Super Lawyers Rising Star every year since 2018. A bilingual advocate for justice, she’s represented numerous Spanish-speaking clients. She serves on the Character and Fitness Committee and is a member of both the Michigan Association of Treatment Court Professionals and the Rochester Bar Association. A graduate of Oakland University and Cooley Law School, Judge Polizzi’s commitment to justice and equity embodies the best of public service in Oakland County.

For more information about Oakland Together 40 Under 40, click on oakgov.com/40Under40. A complete list of the Class of 2025 is below:

  • Dr. Mohammed Hussain Abdul Jabbar, Ph.D., of Novi, works at Nissan as the Principal Scientist
  • Dr. Ashlee Barnes, of Beverly Hills, works at the University of Detroit Mercy as an Assistant Professor
  • Kendal Bowman of Farmington Hills is Principal of Arcos Studio, LLC and Project Architect/Manager at Lott3Metz Crutcher
  • Ashley Chambers, of Shelby Township, works at Chief Financial Credit Union as Vice President of Business Development
  • Kiesha Colson, of Southfield, works at Planned Parenthood of Michigan as Director of Patient Care Operations
  • Sarah Cook-Maylen, of Milford, works at Oakland County Parks and Recreation as Chief of Natural Resources and Environment
  • Nathan J. Fink, of West Bloomfield Township, Partner at Fink Bressack
  • Doug Furgason, of Clawson, works at Rocket as Procurement Category Manager
  • Brad Galli, of Birmingham, works at WXYZ-TV Channel 7 as Sports Director
  • Michael Greco, of Waterford Township, works at Voyage Advisory & Greco Career Consulting LLC as Project Management Consultant, Career Consultant
  • Russell L. Harris Jr., of Pontiac, Founder and CEO of Warrior Academy
  • Dr. Tia Harvey, of Pontiac, Education Director at Accent Pontiac
  • Dorian A. Hooker, of Southfield, works at AAA – The Auto Club Group as Sr. Corporate Governance Administrator
  • Sgt. Sam James, of Waterford, works at Oakland County Sheriff’s Office as Sergeant
  • Christelle Keefer, of Rochester Hills, works at ABB Inc. as Global Business Development Manager for Robotics Education
  • Shane Robert Kolo, of West Bloomfield, works at Oakland County Prosecutor’s Office as Assistant Prosecuting Attorney
  • Shelby Kuhlman, of Lake Orion, works at Stellantis as North America Quality and Warranty Financial Controller
  • Brandon Lee, of Royal Oak, works at United Way for Southeastern Michigan as Chief Operating Officer & Executive Vice-President
  • Shane P. Lewis, of Clawson, works at Oakland University as Director of Admissions
  • Luke Londo, of Hazel Park, works at Siren as Senior Account Executive
  • Mara Magyarosi-Laytner, of Hazel Park, works at Mara Magyarosi-Laytner | Artist as Artist, Educator, Curator
  • Oluwatosin Martins, of Plymouth, works at Center for Employment Opportunities as Regional Director
  • Elizabeth McGregor, of Waterford, works at Volkswagen Group of America as Associate Engineer Sr. – Emissions Certification
  • Enida Metaj, of Royal Oak, works at Rockwell Automation as Governance, Risk and Compliance Auditor
  • Carolina Noguez, of Troy, works at Oakland Thrive as Director of Strategic Partnerships and Outreach
  • Lizz Parkinson, of Madison Heights, works at Cranbrook Institute of Science as Head of the Freshwater Forum
  • Ryan A. Particka, of Royal Oak, works at United States Attorney’s Office, Eastern District of Michigan as Deputy Chief for Health Care Fraud – White Collar Crime Unit
  • Tejaskumar Mangal Balgonda Patil of Troy, works at Qualcomm as Staff Engineer
  • Samantha Pickering of Ferndale works at Michigan Environmental Council as Public Environmental Health Policy Manager
  • Hon. Laura E. Polizzi, of Rochester Hills, works at 52-3 District Court as District Court Judge
  • Dr. Kathryn Rougeau, of Troy, works at Oakland University as an Assistant Professor
  • David A. Sahli, of Franklin, works at Rocket Mortgage as Senior Corporate Counsel
  • Ryan Eli Salter, of Royal Oak, Co-founder of Breadless
  • Drew Schultz, of Clawson, works at Motown Museum as Digital Media Curator and Historian
  • Hassan B. Sheikh, of West Bloomfield, works at Wayne County as Director of Economic Development
  • Suzanna Shkreli, of Birmingham, works at Michigan Lottery as Commissioner
  • Jen Skridulis, of Clawson, works at Oakland County Medical Examiner’s Office as Medical Examiner Investigator
  • Sarah Whitt, of Royal Oak, works at Detroit Zoological Society as Director of Security
  • Melissa (Ann) Williams-Bowman, of Sylvan Lake, works at Oakland County Health Division as an Epidemiologist
  • Andrew D. Zaccagnini, CEM, PEM, of Rochester Hills, works at Oakland County Emergency Management as Emergency Management Specialist and the Rochester Fire Department
MDARD Helps Keep Tulip Time Blooming

MDARD Helps Keep Tulip Time Blooming

by | Apr 30, 2025 | Agriculture

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For immediate release: April 30, 2025

Media contact: Lynsey Mukomel, 517-290-1734

MDARD Helps Keep Tulip Time Blooming

Pre-Festival Inspections Root Out Invasive Pests and Plant Diseases

LANSING, Mich. – Inspectors at the Michigan Department of Agriculture and Rural Development (MDARD) and their partners at the City of Holland have been working tirelessly to ensure a pleasant and pest-free Tulip Time.

Each spring, hundreds of thousands of visitors descend on Holland to admire stunning floral displays throughout the city’s parks and gardens. MDARD plays a crucial behind-the-scenes role to ensure the health and safety of tulip bulbs before they’re planted — and to protect Michiganders and the natural resources we cherish.

“MDARD and the City of Holland have been working quietly and efficiently to ensure a safe and successful Tulip Time,” said MDARD Director Tim Boring. “Verifying that imported tulip bulbs are free of plant pests and diseases is just one example of MDARD working behind the scenes to benefit Michiganders. We’re proud to help sustain this great state tradition for generations to come.”

Preparations for Tulip Time begin months in advance. In early September, shipments of bulbs sourced from the Netherlands begin their journey to Michigan. After the bulbs arrive at port in Pennsylvania, they are transported overnight to Holland. At that point, MDARD steps in to ensure the tulips are disease and pest-free.

“We want to ensure that the tulip bulbs visitors take home after the festival are healthy and pest-free,” said MDARD Plant Health Inspector Thomas Jepsen, Jr. “MDARD inspections help prevent the spread of harmful pests and plant diseases – protecting not just public displays, but also home landscapes and gardens.”

MDARD inspectors conduct a thorough visual inspection of the imported tulip bulbs, looking for signs of rot, soft spots, mites and fungal infections. If the inspectors detect any health, safety, or environmental concerns, they restrict the planting of those bulbs or require treatment before planting proceeds.

“We’re planting 648,000 tulips this year, all by hand,” said Jamie Scott, Deputy Director of Parks and Cemeteries at the City of Holland. “The fact that MDARD could come in and inspect our tulips and make sure we’re providing a product that is not detrimental to the environment is incredible.”

Whether planting a few bulbs in a home garden or hundreds of thousands of bulbs in a major display, maintaining pest-free green spaces is essential to ecological health and the integrity of the food system. MDARD performs inspections for a variety of plants shipped to nurseries and greenhouses across the state, working directly with the horticulture industry to protect against the serious economic and environmental threats posed by invasive species and plant diseases.

Watch MDARD inspectors and City of Holland personnel prep for Tulip Time.

Learn more about the Tulip Time Festival, which will take place from May 2 – May 11.

Read about MDARD’s Plant Health Program.
Lawsuit Against Roku for violating Children’s Data Privacy Laws

Lawsuit Against Roku for violating Children’s Data Privacy Laws

by | Apr 29, 2025 | Regional News
Michigan Department of Attorney General Press Release banner

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE:
April 29, 2025

Media Contact:
Danny Wimmer

AG Nessel Files Lawsuit Against Roku for Allegedly Violating Children’s Data Privacy Laws

LANSING – Today, Michigan Attorney General Dana Nessel filed a lawsuit (PDF) against Roku, Inc. in the U.S. District Court for the Eastern District of Michigan, alleging that the television platform violates the Children’s Online Privacy Protection Act (COPPA) and the Michigan Consumer Protection Act. The lawsuit accuses Roku of collecting, and allowing third parties to collect the personal information of children without the required notice or without obtaining parental consent.

Nearly half of American households, including millions in Michigan, utilize the Roku television platform. The platform delivers streaming services, ad-supported programming, and live television to viewers of all ages, including children. Unlike its competitors, Roku does not offer parents the option to create children’s profiles, subjecting both parents and children to many of the same data collection practices.

The lawsuit alleges that Roku systematically collects, processes, and discloses the personal information of children, including their locations, voice recordings, IP addresses, and persistent identifiers that track children’s browsing histories on Roku and across the internet. All of these are categories of personal information protected under COPPA. The Attorney General further alleges that Roku enables third-party channels to collect children’s personal information to attract content providers to its platform and increase advertising revenue. Roku also allegedly enhances its collection and monetization of children’s personal information through partnerships with third-party web trackers and data brokers, some of which have been sued by the Federal Trade Commission for tracking individuals’ locations.

COPPA also places strict limits on the collection of children’s voice data, limits Roku allegedly disregards. The lawsuit also claims Roku actively misleads parents about its collection of their children’s personal information and their rights to protect that data.

“Roku has blatantly violated children’s privacy laws, illegally exposing kids across Michigan to invasive data collection practices,” Nessel said. “We cannot allow companies to jeopardize the security of our children’s personal information. My office remains committed to holding accountable companies that violate the rights of Michigan families and seek to profit at the expense of children’s safety and privacy.”

The Attorney General seeks to stop Roku’s alleged illegal data collection and disclosure practices, to require Roku to comply with federal and state law, and to recover damages, restitution, and civil penalties for Roku’s years of alleged misconduct.