Former Michigan Democratic Party Treasurer Charged in Alleged Embezzlement Case Involving Elderly Victim

Traci Kornak

  

Dana Nessel 

A longtime political figure in Michigan is now facing serious criminal charges after prosecutors say she exploited a vulnerable senior for personal financial gain.

Traci Kornak, the former treasurer of the Michigan Democratic Party and a onetime ally of Governor Gretchen Whitmer, has been charged with multiple felony counts tied to the alleged theft of tens of thousands of dollars from an elderly woman in Kent County.

Kent County Prosecutor Chris Becker announced that his office has authorized three criminal charges against Kornak following a multi-year investigation. According to prosecutors, the alleged victim is Rose Burd, an elderly woman described as a vulnerable adult under Michigan law.

The charges include one count of embezzlement from a vulnerable adult involving $50,000 or more but less than $100,000, a second count of embezzlement involving an amount between $1,000 and $20,000, and a third count of false pretenses. If convicted on all counts, Kornak could face a combined maximum prison sentence of up to 25 years, along with significant financial penalties.

Court records indicate the alleged conduct occurred over an extended period, with prosecutors arguing that Kornak abused a position of trust to gain access to Burd’s finances. Authorities have not yet announced an arraignment date, and Kornak has not entered a plea as of this writing.

The case has drawn heightened political attention because of Kornak’s past role within the state Democratic Party and her proximity to top Democratic leadership. Critics have accused Attorney General Dana Nessel of failing to act sooner, alleging that the matter was quietly sidelined for years despite earlier warnings.

State Rep. Jay DeBoyer, chair of the Michigan House Oversight Committee, has held multiple hearings related to the case and praised Becker’s office for ultimately bringing charges forward. DeBoyer has said the prolonged timeline raises serious questions about political favoritism and accountability inside state government.

Much of the public scrutiny surrounding the case stems from years of reporting by journalist Charlie LeDuff, who has repeatedly alleged that top state officials were aware of the accusations long before criminal charges were filed. LeDuff has reported that Kornak continued to hold financial responsibilities within Democratic political circles even after concerns were raised.

According to those reports, Kornak was at one point considered for a judicial appointment, a move that intensified backlash once the allegations became more widely known.

The investigation was eventually taken over by the Kent County Sheriff’s Office, which conducted a lengthy review before referring the case to the prosecutor. Becker’s decision to move forward has been framed by supporters as a belated but necessary step toward restoring public trust.

As the case now heads toward court, it is expected to fuel renewed debate over political accountability, oversight of party officials, and protections for elderly and vulnerable adults. For now, Kornak remains presumed innocent, with prosecutors saying the facts will ultimately be tested in a courtroom rather than the court of public opinion.

Perry Johnson Enters Michigan Governor’s Race, Pledges Self-Funded Campaign

 

Republican businessman Perry Johnson formally entered Michigan’s race for governor on Monday, launching a self-funded campaign and immediately positioning himself as an outsider willing to challenge both Democratic leadership and entrenched political interests in Lansing.

Johnson, a wealthy entrepreneur best known for his quality-control and consulting businesses, announced his candidacy with a message centered on economic growth, government accountability, and education reform, themes he emphasized during previous statewide campaigns.

“I’m running because Michigan is falling behind,” Johnson said in his announcement. “Families are paying more, businesses are leaving, and career politicians aren’t delivering results. I’m willing to put my own resources on the line to fix it.”

A Familiar Name Returns to Statewide Politics

Johnson is no stranger to Michigan voters. He previously ran in the Republican gubernatorial primary in 2022, spending millions of his own money before being disqualified over petition issues — a controversy that continues to resonate within GOP circles.

This time, Johnson’s team says the campaign will be built with strict legal compliance and a fully self-funded structure, allowing him to avoid reliance on political action committees, party donors, or special-interest groups.

Campaign aides say Johnson plans to invest “whatever it takes” to communicate directly with voters statewide.

GOP Field Continues to Take Shape

Johnson’s entry further crowds an already developing Republican field, as multiple candidates position themselves to challenge Democratic control of the governor’s office. With term limits preventing Governor Gretchen Whitmer from running again, both parties see the 2026 race as a pivotal contest for the state’s economic and political direction.

Republican strategists say Johnson’s personal wealth, name recognition, and willingness to self-finance could make him a serious contender — particularly in a primary electorate frustrated with traditional politicians.

However, critics within the party argue that Johnson’s past campaign missteps and outsider status could prove liabilities in a competitive primary.

Campaign Message Focused on Economy and Education

Johnson has signaled that his platform will emphasize:

• Cutting regulations he says drive jobs out of Michigan

• Expanding school choice and restructuring education funding

• Opposing tax increases and what he calls “runaway state spending”

• Reining in executive power and restoring legislative oversight

He is expected to begin a statewide tour immediately, focusing on small businesses, manufacturing communities, and suburban voters.

High-Stakes Race Ahead

With Michigan emerging as a national battleground state, the governor’s race is expected to draw intense attention, heavy spending, and national political interest.

Johnson’s decision to self-fund could reshape the Republican primary, forcing other candidates to rely more heavily on donor networks and party infrastructure — and potentially accelerating the pace and intensity of the race.

As the field continues to solidify, Johnson’s entry underscores what many operatives already expect: Michigan’s 2026 governor’s race will be one of the most expensive and closely watched state contests in the country.

John James Draws Fire After Breaking With Michigan Republicans on Auto Mandate

U.S. Rep. John James is facing renewed scrutiny from within his own party after voting alongside Michigan Democrats to preserve a Biden-era federal auto technology mandate — a move critics say underscores growing concerns about his alignment with Republican priorities.

James’ vote placed him with Democratic members of Michigan’s congressional delegation, including Haley Stevens and Shri Thanedar, and against every other Michigan Republican in the U.S. House, who supported blocking the regulation.

Internal GOP Friction Intensifies

The regulation, issued by the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration during the Joe Biden administration, requires automakers to install advanced technology designed to prevent impaired driving. While supporters argue the rule could save lives, opponents warn it opens the door to increased costs, data collection, and federal intrusion into privately owned vehicles.

Following the vote, conservative activists and Republican strategists in Michigan characterized James’ decision as a clear break from party consensus, particularly on regulatory and privacy issues central to the state’s auto industry.

Debate Avoidance Becomes Part of the Narrative

James’ vote has also reignited criticism over his absence from debates and multi-candidate Republican forums, an issue that has followed him through multiple election cycles. Political observers note that while James has maintained a strong media presence through controlled appearances and national fundraising, he has repeatedly declined invitations to participate in open, unscripted debates with other Republicans.

Those decisions have drawn sharp contrast with other prominent Michigan Republicans who have actively engaged voters in public forums and policy debates.

GOP Field Takes Shape Without James

As dissatisfaction grows among some party activists, attention has increasingly shifted to other Republican figures viewed as more closely aligned with grassroots priorities. Among those frequently mentioned are:

• Mike Cox, emphasizing law-and-order credentials and opposition to federal overreach

• Tom Leonard, known for legislative experience and confrontations with Democratic leadership

• Aric Nesbitt, a consistent critic of federal mandates and regulatory expansion

None of these figures were involved in the congressional vote, but party insiders say the contrast in governing philosophy has become more pronounced.

A Defining Moment

James has defended his record as pragmatic and focused on safety and economic growth. However, critics argue the auto mandate vote — combined with his absence from debates — reinforces doubts about whether he represents the priorities of Michigan Republicans or a more bipartisan, Washington-driven approach.

As federal regulations affecting the auto industry move closer to implementation, and as Michigan Republicans assess future leadership, James’ vote is likely to remain a flashpoint in internal party discussions.

Metro Detroit Doctor, Attorney, and Therapist Charged in Federal Child Exploitation Case

DETROIT — Federal prosecutors have charged three Metro Detroit professionals — a therapist, an attorney, and a medical doctor — in a sweeping child exploitation investigation that uncovered graphic online conversations, alleged admissions of abuse, and the sharing of child sexual abuse material.

According to court filings, the investigation grew out of a separate Federal Bureau of Investigation case in Ohio, where a Toledo-area man was arrested after allegedly attempting to sexually abuse children he believed were real. During that probe, agents discovered extensive chat logs connecting the suspect to men in Michigan.

The messages allegedly included discussions about sexually abusing children as young as four.

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Therapist Allegedly Received Child Abuse Videos

Investigators say Jeremy Brian Tacon, a Huntington Woods resident and licensed psychotherapist, exchanged messages with the Toledo suspect that referenced sexual interest in children and requests for illicit material.

Federal affidavits allege Tacon received multiple videos containing child sexual abuse material through encrypted messaging platforms. When agents executed a search warrant at his home in November, they confirmed the phone linked to the chats belonged to him.

Tacon had worked as an independent contractor at Arbor Wellness Center. The clinic said it severed ties with him immediately and stated there was no indication clients were involved or affected.

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Detroit Attorney Linked to Multiple Devices and Images

Another individual identified in the chats is Joshua Ronnebaum, a Detroit-based attorney who practiced environmental and immigration law and served on a neighborhood association board.

Court documents allege Ronnebaum discussed drug use, sexual activity, and viewing child sexual abuse material with the Toledo suspect over more than a year. During a November search of his residence, agents reportedly seized 38 electronic storage devices.

One phone was allegedly found active and displaying a prompt asking whether to delete the encrypted messaging app Telegram. Investigators believe this was an attempt to erase evidence during the search.

A second device allegedly contained more than 150 images meeting the federal definition of child pornography, including images involving infants and toddlers.

Authorities also say Ronnebaum described past sexual abuse of minors while living abroad — claims that are now part of the federal case.

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Doctor Allegedly Discussed Abuse and Fantasies in Chats

A third suspect, Lincoln Erickson of Farmington Hills, was identified through conversations found on Ronnebaum’s devices.

Erickson, a physical rehabilitation physician and Wayne State University graduate, previously worked at the Detroit Medical Center’s Rehabilitation Institute of Michigan. The hospital confirmed he has been terminated.

Federal filings allege Erickson and Ronnebaum discussed traveling overseas to sexually abuse children and exchanged messages celebrating pedophilia. In one alleged exchange, Erickson described a fantasy involving grooming and abusing a child over many years.

Investigators also allege Erickson claimed to know a father who allowed him to sexually abuse a young child — a statement now under federal scrutiny.

Erickson was arrested at a Detroit hospital where he was serving as a medical resident. Authorities say he admitted to receiving child sexual abuse material he believed to be AI-generated. Searches of his phone allegedly uncovered additional Telegram chats requesting explicit videos.

Court records show Erickson was already on probation stemming from a 2024 domestic violence conviction at the time of his arrest.

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Federal Charges and Court Appearances

All three men — Tacon, Ronnebaum, and Erickson — are charged federally with offenses related to possession and distribution of child sexual abuse material. Ronnebaum and Erickson were scheduled to appear in federal court on December 16.

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Reporting Abuse and Protecting Children

Federal authorities urge parents, caregivers, and educators to remain vigilant about both online and offline threats to children.

Suspected online child exploitation can be reported to the National Center for Missing and Exploited Children CyberTipline at 1-800-843-5678, which works in coordination with federal and state law enforcement agencies.

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Dearborn Community Rallies for Release of Lebanese Father Detained by Federal Immigration Authorities

 

DEARBORN, Mich. — A growing wave of solidarity is emerging in Dearborn as family members and community advocates call for the release of Hassan Hamqa, a Lebanese father of four who has been held in federal immigration detention for more than six months while his legal case remains unresolved.

According to family members, Hamqa has been detained by Immigration and Customs Enforcement since mid-2025. They say his prolonged detention has placed significant emotional and psychological strain on his children and spouse, leaving the household in a constant state of anxiety and uncertainty.

As public support grows, community leaders say the case has become emblematic of broader concerns about prolonged immigration detention without transparency, timelines, or criminal allegations.

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What Is Actually Known About Why Hassan Hamqa Was Detained

As of now, no criminal charges have been publicly disclosed against Hamqa. According to statements from his family and community advocates in Dearborn, his detention stems from an immigration-related issue, not a criminal prosecution.

Hamqa was taken into custody during what supporters describe as an administrative immigration enforcement action. Immigration detention is a civil process, not a criminal one — yet it can still result in months or even years of confinement while cases move slowly through immigration courts.

To date, federal authorities have not publicly explained the specific basis for his continued detention.

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The Immigration Backstory

Based on information shared by family supporters and community organizers:

• Hamqa is a Lebanese national who has lived in the United States for years

• He has deep family, community, and faith-based ties in Dearborn

• His detention is linked to an immigration status dispute or procedural issue, not allegations of violence or threats to public safety

• His immigration case remains pending, with no final legal determination

In short, Hamqa has not been convicted of a crime, yet remains detained while navigating the immigration court system.

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Why Has He Been Held for Over Six Months?

Advocates point to systemic issues within U.S. immigration enforcement.

Under current law, ICE has broad discretion to detain individuals while their cases are pending — even when:

• The individual has no criminal history

• The individual has a stable home, spouse, and children

• The individual poses no flight risk or safety threat

Immigration proceedings are often delayed by court backlogs, postponed bond hearings, and administrative inertia. In many cases, detainees remain in custody simply because their case has not yet been heard.

Civil liberties advocates argue this creates de facto punishment without conviction.

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Family Says Detention Has Taken Heavy Toll

Relatives describe Hamqa as a deeply involved father and an active member of Dearborn’s Lebanese and Arab American community, known for volunteer work and helping others.

His absence, they say, has disrupted daily family life and caused serious emotional distress — particularly for his children, who have struggled with the prolonged separation.

“The uncertainty is the hardest part,” a family representative said. “There’s no clear timeline, no resolution, and no explanation for why he’s still being held while his case is pending.”

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Petition Launched as Public Support Grows

In response, the family has launched an online petition calling for Hamqa’s release. The petition emphasizes his clean record, strong community ties, and role as a devoted father, arguing that continued detention serves no public safety purpose.

Supporters say alternatives to detention — such as supervised release, monitoring, or bond — are readily available and would allow Hamqa to return home while his case proceeds.

Local residents, advocacy groups, and faith leaders have amplified the petition through social media and community events, framing the case as part of a broader pattern of prolonged immigration detention without transparency.

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What Remains Unknown

Despite months of detention:

• ICE has not released a detailed public explanation

• Court filings have not been made public

• No official criminal allegations have been disclosed

That lack of transparency has fueled outrage and organizing within Dearborn and beyond.

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Why This Case Resonates in Dearborn

Dearborn is home to one of the largest Arab and Lebanese American populations in the United States. Many residents see Hamqa’s case as emblematic of:

• Arbitrary immigration detention

• Families being torn apart with no timelines

• Civil detention operating with minimal public accountability

For supporters, the issue transcends politics and centers on basic fairness, due process, and family unity.

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Bottom Line

Hassan Hamqa was detained due to an immigration status or procedural issue, not a criminal charge. He remains in custody because the immigration system allows prolonged civil detention while cases crawl through backlogged courts — even when families and communities bear the human cost.

As the months pass, supporters say their demand is simple: transparency, due process, and the chance for a father to be home while his case is fairly adjudicated.

Video: Car Crashes Into Delta Terminal at Detroit Metro Airport, Driver Taken Into Custody

ROMULUS, Mich. A vehicle drove into the Delta Air Lines check in area inside the McNamara Terminal at Detroit Metropolitan Wayne County Airport in Romulus, Michigan, authorities confirmed late Saturday.

According to preliminary reports and witness accounts, a Mercedes Benz crashed through the terminal entrance and came to a stop inside the Delta ticketing lobby. Video shared on social media shows the vehicle inside the terminal near passenger check in counters.

Officials have not yet released a motive for the incident. Witnesses reported hearing a loud crash as the vehicle broke through barriers while airport employees and travelers were nearby. Some witnesses stated the driver exited the vehicle shortly after the crash and was taken into custody by airport police without further incident.

Emergency responders arrived quickly and secured the area. Several people were evaluated at the scene for minor injuries. Authorities said no serious injuries or fatalities have been confirmed.

The Wayne County Airport Authority Police Department is leading the investigation. Officials stated that more details will be released as the investigation continues.

Despite the incident, airport operations were not fully shut down. Travelers experienced delays and disruptions near the affected check in area as crews worked to clear debris and assess damage.

Airport officials said security and access procedures will be reviewed following the crash to determine how the vehicle was able to enter the terminal area.

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Lawsuit Paints Damning Picture of Discrimination Inside Benson’s Office

WAYNE COUNTY, Mich.  — A newly filed civil lawsuit is leveling serious accusations against the Michigan Department of State, alleging that racial discrimination was not only present under Secretary of State Jocelyn Benson, but ignored, enabled, and allowed to metastasize within her administration.

Filed January 12 in Wayne County Circuit Court, the lawsuit was brought by four current and former department employees who allege they were treated differently because they are Black — targeted for discipline, subjected to heightened scrutiny, and denied advancement while other employees were allegedly shielded from similar treatment.

The plaintiffs — David Murray, Elvine Vanbolden, Mychael Foster, and former department official Nirva Civilus — describe a workplace where accountability flowed downward but favoritism flowed up, and where race allegedly played a decisive role in who was investigated, punished, or quietly pushed aside.

According to the complaint, Benson’s office failed at the most basic level of governance: there was no effective system to track discriminatory practices, no meaningful mechanism to correct them, and no internal safeguards to prevent bias from influencing management decisions.

“Defendants have no effective system in place to track, correct, or prevent this unlawful discriminatory conduct,” the complaint states.

That failure, the lawsuit argues, was not incidental — it was structural.

Adding weight to the allegations are sworn statements from former Assistant Secretary of State Heaster Wheeler, who is not a plaintiff but provided testimony describing internal policies so vague and inconsistently applied that they effectively invited biased enforcement. Wheeler said the lack of clarity and accountability inside the department factored directly into his decision to leave.

For critics, that testimony is particularly damning: when senior leadership exits citing internal dysfunction, it undercuts claims that discrimination complaints are merely misunderstandings or isolated grievances.

This lawsuit also follows a familiar and troubling pattern. Less than two years ago, the State of Michigan paid a $775,000 separation agreement to another employee after similar discrimination allegations emerged — a payout that raised questions about whether taxpayer money was being used to bury systemic problems rather than fix them.

Now, those same issues have resurfaced, this time with multiple plaintiffs, sworn statements from former executives, and detailed allegations describing a workplace culture allegedly hostile to equal treatment under Benson’s leadership.

Benson’s office has dismissed the lawsuit as “absolutely false,” asserting that department policies are clear, uniformly enforced, and intolerant of discrimination or retaliation. But the accumulating record — repeated lawsuits, corroborating testimony, and costly settlements — is beginning to strain the credibility of those denials.

No court has yet ruled on the claims, which remain allegations. Still, the lawsuit places Benson squarely at the center of a growing controversy, one that challenges her public image as a steward of fairness and transparency and raises the question of whether her office practiced internally what it demanded of others.

As the case moves forward, the issue is no longer whether these allegations are politically inconvenient — but whether Michigan’s top election official presided over an agency where discrimination was allowed to persist, uncorrected and unchallenged, on her watch.