From The Boston Globe · · 1m 10s
Rhode Island Democratic Chair Resigns After Husband Indicted
Rhode Island Democratic Party chair Liz Beretta-Perik resigns after husband Michael Perik faces $20 million fraud charges.
In brief
Rhode Island Democratic Party chair Liz Beretta-Perik resigns after husband Michael Perik faces $20 million fraud charges. Rhode Island Democratic Party chair Liz Beretta-Perik resigned following her husband Michael Perik's indictment in a $20 million fraud scheme involving Pell grants. Originally reported by The…
Resignation Announcement
Liz Beretta-Perik resigned as Rhode Island Democratic Party chair effective Tuesday.
Husband Indicted in Fraud
Michael Perik faces $20 million fraud charges related to Pell grants and federal subsidies.
Timing of Charges
Indictment comes two weeks before November 3 general election with early voting underway.
Governor Nominees Call for Resignation
Democratic and Republican gubernatorial nominees both urged Beretta-Perik to step down.
No Criminal Charges Against Chair
Beretta-Perik is not named in indictment and faces no criminal charges.
Fraud Scheme Details
Perik allegedly diverted Pell grants through four for-profit entities between 2017 and 2022.
College Closure Impact
Ohio officials allege scheme contributed to Eastern Gateway Community College closing in September 2025.
Prosecution Claims
Prosecutors say Perik controlled enrollment and financial aid to maximize incentive payments.
Defense Argument
Perik's attorney calls charges 'pure political payback' with no crime committed.
The big picture
Rhode Island Democratic Party chair Liz Beretta-Perik resigned following her husband Michael Perik's indictment in a $20 million fraud scheme involving Pell grants.
