HUD SUSPENDS LAWRENCE COUNTY HOUSING AUTHORITY OFFICIAL FROM INFLUENCING OR CONTROLLING THE USE OF HUD FUNDS

PITTSBURGH - The Department of Housing and Urban Development has suspended Lawrence County Housing
Authority Board member Gary F. Felasco Jr. from participating in any transactions that influence or control the use
of HUD funds.

HUD suspended Felasco based on multiple felony charges brought against him following an investigation by the Pennsylvania State Police and the State's Attorney General's Office. The charges are in connection with Felasco's activities as the elected treasurer of Lawrence County and the appointed Director of the Lawrence County Tax
Claim Bureau.

"The Department has determined that the suspension is necessary to protect the public interest and the integrity of HUD programs," said HUD Regional Director Guy Ciarrocchi. "We have a duty to all taxpayers and those served by the Housing Authority to ensure that programs are run well and managed ethically."

Felasco is a former chairman and a current board member of the Lawrence County Housing Authority, which receives HUD funding.

The suspension is for a temporary period pending the outcome of the criminal proceedings or any related debarment action. It also extends throughout the Executive Branch of the Federal government. HUD issued letters last week to Felasco and Lawrence County Housing Authority Executive Director Robert Evanick informing them of the suspension.

HUD is the nation's housing agency committed to increasing homeownership, particularly among minorities; creating affordable housing opportunities for low-income Americans; and supporting the homeless, elderly, people with disabilities and people living with AIDS. The Department also promotes economic and community development as well as enforces the nation's fair housing laws. More information about HUD and its programs is available on the Internet and espanol.hud.gov.

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