DALLAS, February 12, 2013 – “The SEC’s lawsuit against a regional center operator in Chicago serves as a clear signal to anyone involved with the EB-5 Investor Visa Program that compliance with the law is not optional. The agency’s enforcement of U.S. securities laws to prevent exploitation of the program is critical to maintaining both investor and public confidence in the integrity of this important economic development tool,” said Daniel J. Healy, CEO of Civitas Capital Group. “The EB-5 Program adds tens of thousands of jobs for U.S. citizens to the economy every year at businesses and projects nationwide. Abuse of the program undermines it around the world and must be stopped. I commend the SEC and USCIS for their commitment to preserving the integrity of the EB-5 program.”
According to the SEC, the individual behind the investment scheme attempted to defraud 250 foreign investors participating in the EB-5 Investor Visa Program, totaling $145 million in securities and $11 million in administrative costs.
In addition to serving as CEO of Civitas Capital Group and the City of Dallas Regional Center, Healy also serves on the board of directors of the Association to Invest in the USA (IIUSA), where he is committed to advancing best practices and industry standards for transparent and responsible regional center operations.
About Civitas Capital Group
For investors seeking a more progressive and objective evaluation of the options available, Civitas Capital Group is an independent specialty asset management and financial services firm with operating divisions focused on Alternative Investments, EB-5 Funds and Wealth Management. Civitas evaluates the truth that lies at the core of every investment. We dig deeper, using a rigorous process to evaluate investment opportunities from every angle. civitascapital.com
