AG Nessel Hails Work of Elder Abuse Task Force

by orionontv | May 1, 2025 | Regional News

Michigan Department of Attorney General Press Release banner

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE:
May 1, 2025

Media Contact:
Danny Wimmer

AG Nessel Hails Work of Elder Abuse Task Force as Michigan’s Uniform Securities Act Administrative Rules Take Effect

LANSING – Today, Michigan Attorney General Dana Nessel and the Elder Abuse Task Force are celebrating the implementation of critical amendments to Michigan’s Uniform Securities Act. These changes designate securities brokers, dealers, and investment advisors as mandatory reporters of suspected financial exploitation of vulnerable adults.

Signed into law by Governor Gretchen Whitmer in December 2023, the statute officially went into effect in March 2024. The corresponding administrative rules were enacted earlier this week (PDF). The securities industry is now legally required to alert law enforcement or Adult Protective Services when they suspect a vulnerable adult is being financially exploited.

“By requiring securities brokers, dealers, and investment advisors to report suspected financial exploitation, the Uniform Securities Act closes a dangerous loophole that previously helped enable bad actors to drain the investment accounts of vulnerable residents,” Nessel said. “I am proud of the important work the Elder Abuse Task Force has done and continues to do to protect the life savings of our seniors and to ensure they can age with dignity, security, and peace of mind.”

This statute is one of the major accomplishments of the Elder Abuse Task Force. Michigan’s Elder Abuse Task Force launched in 2019 and consists of more than 55 different organizations in the public, private, and nonprofit sectors – all working together to combat elder abuse. The more than 100 individuals on the Task Force are divided into seven committees working diligently to accomplish nine initiatives (PDF), including requiring certification and training for professional guardians. Other achievements include the following:

The adoption of a Vulnerable Adult Incident Report form for investigation by law enforcement across the state, including the implementation of related trainings;
The Financial Exploitation Prevention Act (FEPA), which was signed into law in 2021 to ensure mandated reporting for financial institutions on suspected fraud or exploitation; and
The Uniform Power of Attorney Act, which was passed and became effective July 1, 2024, to make powers of attorney more accessible with a standard form in the statute. Attorney General Nessel recently released a public service announcement explaining the new law.

More than 100,000 older adults in Michigan are victims of elder abuse. They experience abuse, neglect, and exploitation. Michigan residents seeking elder abuse resources are encouraged to call 800-24-ABUSE (22873), or 855-444-3911 to report suspected elder abuse.

Chilean National Convicted in Home Invasions

by orionontv | Apr 30, 2025 | Regional News

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

by orionontv | Apr 30, 2025 | Regional News

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

Lawsuit Against Roku for violating Children’s Data Privacy Laws

by orionontv | Apr 29, 2025 | Regional News

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.

OC Planting Nearly 700 Trees on Government Campus

by orionontv | Apr 29, 2025 | Regional News

Oakland County Planting Nearly 700 Trees on Government Campus While Reducing Fleet Fuel Consumption

Post Date:04/29/2025 11:22 AM

These trees have the potential to absorb 15 metric tons of carbon dioxide per year from the atmosphere.
The county’s reduction in fuel consumption averted the release of 196 metric tons of carbon dioxide into the atmosphere, nearly equal to the amount of carbon dioxide released globally every second.
Oakland County’s strategic sustainability goal is to reach net zero carbon emissions for county operations by 2050.

Pontiac, Mich. – In Celebration of April as Earth Month, Oakland County is once again demonstrating its commitment to environmental stewardship with the planting of about 700 trees across its government campus. According to the U.S. Department of Agriculture, these trees will each remove an average of 48 pounds of carbon dioxide from the atmosphere annually once mature or an estimated 15 metric tons of carbon dioxide a year.

In addition to the tree planting, the county continues to make significant strides in reducing emissions from its fleet operations. Despite an increase in fleet size and total miles traveled in 2024, Oakland County’s investment in higher fuel-efficiency vehicles helped save more than 22,000 gallons of gas. This reduction averted the release of 196 metric tons of carbon dioxide, equivalent to removing approximately 46 gasoline-powered vehicles from the road for an entire year.

“This kind of progress underscores our commitment to sustainable practices,” said Oakland County Executive Dave Coulter. “From our growing canopy of trees to smart fleet management, we’re taking action today to build a healthier, more resilient environment for our children and future generations.”

Building on last year’s momentum, when the county planted 500 trees and saved 123,000 gallons of fuel, Oakland County has now planted 1,200 trees since launching the initiative and averted the release of more than 2.8 million pounds of carbon dioxide in just two years. The initiative is a major step toward achieving the county’s goal of planting 2,027 trees by 2027 and reaching net zero emissions from operations by 2050.

“Our goal is to continually implement best practices that reduce operational emissions and resource consumption while creating a campus that is accessible, safe and enjoyable for all,” said Julie Lyons Bricker, Oakland County’s sustainability manager.

This third year of tree planting began in late April and includes a diverse mix of native evergreen, deciduous shade and flowering trees throughout the campus. Several new apple trees will be added to the orchard near the Oakland County Farmers Market. All trees are planted using the International Society of Arboriculture guidelines to ensure healthy root growth and long-term vitality.

“Proper planting techniques are essential to ensure that the trees thrive,” said Mark Baldwin, chief of landscape services. “Healthy trees purify our air, cool our surroundings and increase biodiversity which is a smart investment for generations to come.”

In addition to fleet and landscaping improvements, new landscaping around the Executive Office Building is now completely herbicide- and pesticide-free, further promoting a sustainable and biodiverse environment.

The county’s fleet of more than 900 vehicles accounts for about 16 percent of its greenhouse gas emissions. To address this, Oakland County has introduced 12 electric vehicles and three hybrids, replaces vehicles every six years – well ahead of the national average – and implements rigorous maintenance practices like regular wheel alignments to improve fuel efficiency.

Oakland County buildings, which span nearly 2 million square feet, contribute to 76 percent of operational greenhouse gas emissions. A collaboration between Facilities Management and the Office of Sustainability is driving improvements in energy efficiency, building decarbonization and renewable energy installation.
Oakland County’s environmental sustainability initiatives reflect a long-term commitment to innovation, climate resilience, and the well-being of residents and employees alike.

For more information about Oakland County’s sustainability initiatives, visit oakgov.com/community/sustainability.

Oakland County Student Debt Relief Program with Savi

by orionontv | Apr 28, 2025 | Regional News

Oakland County Student Debt Relief Program with Savi Has Already Reduced Debt for 1,000 Residents

Post Date:04/28/2025 2:08 PM

More than 1,000 Oakland County residents have already reduced their student debt through the Savi partnership, with a projected $20 million in lifetime savings.
Collections on defaulted federal student loans are scheduled to resume on May 5, 2025. Oakland County residents in this situation are strongly encouraged to take advantage of the Savi platform now, while free access is available.
Free access to Savi’s student debt relief services is available to all residents and county employees through Sept. 30, 2025 at OakGov.com/Savi.

Pontiac, Mich. – Oakland County’s partnership with Savi is already delivering powerful results. More than 1,000 residents have had their student debt reduced, with a projected $20 million in lifetime savings on their college loans.

These early outcomes underscore the success of the Oakland County Student Debt Relief Initiative, the first county-wide program of its kind in the nation.

“These results are just the beginning,” said Oakland County Executive Dave Coulter. “We’re proving that local government can make a real, measurable difference in people’s lives by reducing the financial burden of student loan debt.”

“This is exactly the incredible impact we envisioned when we launched this program,” said Board Chair David T. Woodward (D-Royal Oak). “We’re lowering costs, helping people reduce or eliminate student debt, and together making our local economy stronger.”

After a five-year hiatus during the COVID pandemic, collections on defaulted federal student loans are scheduled to resume on May 5, 2025. Oakland County residents in this situation are strongly encouraged to take advantage of the Savi platform now, while free access is available, to get the help they need before collections begin.

Oakland County’s student debt relief initiative was launched in July 2024 through a collaboration of County Executive Dave Coulter’s administration and the Oakland County Board of Commissioners. The goal is to help residents navigate student loan repayment options and access federal forgiveness programs, all with the support of Savi’s expert tools and personal assistance.

“Savi ended up being a godsend for me,” said Jackie Vermilya, an immunization program specialist in Oakland County Health Division who is a Savi user. “The Savi program helped me so much with the paperwork to take advantage of the Public Loan Forgiveness Program and I was able to get $174,000 forgiven. A huge weight was taken off my shoulders and I will forever be grateful for the help I received from Savi.”

Residents and Oakland County employees can still register for free one-year access to Savi’s services through Sept. 30, 2025 by visiting OakGov.com/Savi.

Through its platform, Savi helps users discover the most effective loan repayment plans, apply for forgiveness programs and navigate the complexities of federal student loan policy. To date, Savi has identified more than $3 billion in potential loan forgiveness nationwide, with average savings exceeding $25,000 per borrower.

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