Case 7:17-cr-00058-KMK Document 45 Filed 11/05/18 Page 1 of 18

REDACTED
UNITED STATES DISTRICT COURT
SOUTHERN DISTRICT OF NEW YORK
X
UNITED STATES OF AMERICA,
17 Cr. 58-01 (KMK)

- V. RICHARD BREGA,
Defendant.
X

SENTENCING MEMORANDUM ON BEHALF OF
RICHARD BREGA

CALHOUN & LAWRENCE, LLP
81 Main Street, Suite 504
White Plains, NY 10601
(914) 946-5900

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UNITED STATES DISTRICT COURT
SOUTHERN DISTRICT OF NEW YORK
X
"UNITED STATES OF AMERICA,
17 Cr. 58-01 (KMK)

- V. RICHARD BREGA,
Defendant.
X

SENTENCING MEMORANDUM ON BEHALF OF
RICHARD BREGA
"If it wasn't for this man, I wouldn't be where I am today, he put hope into me,
and he effortlessly gave his time when a person was in need. Because of him, I
am who I am today." — Former employee
"I hope this letter will give you an idea of his good character and help him get a
second chance at life, because he sure has given me one." — Friend
"I'm asking you to understand what Rich Brega has done for myself, my farm,
my customers and our community. Rich is compassionate and necessary to our
community. Please take all this into consideration. I can't imagine what we
would do without Rich Brega." — Local business owner

Introduction
This memorandum and attachments are submitted on behalf of Richard Brega, who is
scheduled to be sentenced by Your Honor on November 19, 2018. With utmost respect, we
submit that Mr. Brega should be sentenced to a significant period of house arrest, with whatever
conditions are deemed appropriate by Your Honor.1
' It is also asked that the sentence be ordered to run concurrently with the not-yetimposed sentence in Mr. Brega's Rockland County case. The Court in Rockland County agreed
to impose a concurrent sentence of no more than a year with any sentence imposed by this Court.
The District Attorney's Office also agreed to a sentence of no jail if Your Honor were not to
imprison Mr. Brega.
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As set forth in detail below, such a sentence without any incarceration is warranted based
on the fact that Mr. Brega's criminal conduct stands in stark contrast with his otherwise lawful,
extraordinary personal and professional history. Mr. Brega and those who rely on him have
already suffered tremendously as a result of his arrest and conviction in this case. Following his
arrest, Mr. Brega ceded control of companies that he spent decades building. Despite the fact
that Mr. Brega and his family now face severe financial strain, Mr. Brega has taken every step
possible to protect the livelihoods of his former employees and to ensure the continued viability
of his former company under its new leadership.
A sentence of house arrest would not only recognize the impact that Mr. Brega's arrest
and conviction have already had on him and his family, such a sentence would take into account
Mr. Brega's years of service and generosity to his community. As detailed at length in the
dozens of attached letters from his family and friends, Mr. Brega has a life-long record of
generosity — financial and otherwise — to others in need. Permitting Mr. Brega to serve out his
sentence at home would allow him to continue to provide support to the many people now
suffering because of his misconduct. A house arrest sentence would be a constructive one,
which would meet the needs of justice in this case while respecting the accomplishments in Mr.
Brega's life and his value to the community, as well as acknowledging the impact that his arrest
and conviction have had on him.

Offense Conduct
The details of the conduct for which Mr. Brega was convicted are explained in detail in
the Presentence Investigation Report (the "PSR"). Our objections to the PSR's portrayal of Mr.
Brega's conduct are explained in the Applicable Law section below.
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Mr. Brega is the founder and former president of a group of related bus transportation
companies in Rockland County, NY: Brega D.O.T. Maintenance Corp. ("Brega DOT"), Brega
Transportation Corporation ("Brega Transport"), RTB Properties, and Brega Commercial
Collision ("BCC" and, collectively with Brega DOT, Brega Transport and RTB Properties, "the
Brega Companies"). The Rockland Board of Cooperative Educational Services ("Rockland
BOCES"), an entity created by the New York State Legislature, exists to allow multiple school
districts in Rockland County to pool resources, including a fleet of buses, some of which are
equipped for students with physical disabilities.
Founded in 1997, Brega DOT is a bus fleet maintenance repair shop. In 2008, Brega
DOT was awarded a bus maintenance contract under which it would provide maintenance and
service for Rockland County's bus fleet. Under the 2008 agreement, Rockland BOCES received
bus maintenance services as if it was a party to the contract between Brega DOT and Rockland
County. The contract was renewed in 2013. During the time period that Rockland BOCES was
receiving services from Brega DOT, William Popkave was the transportation supervisor for
Rockland BOCES.
In addition to their professional relationship, Mr. Brega and Mr. Popkave developed a
personal relationship that involved dinners and gatherings with local business leaders and
government officials. Many of the individuals in this circle of friends brought their vehicles to
Brega DOT for maintenance. After a local official told Mr. Popkave that he could have his
vehicles serviced free of charge at Brega DOT, Mr. Popkave also began to bring his car, as well
as vehicles belonging to his family and friends, to Brega DOT. Mr. Brega never told Mr.
Popkave that he would receive free car repairs, and Brega DOT always sent an invoice to Mr.

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Popkave for repairs to his personal vehicles. Although Mr. Popkave initially paid these invoices,
he later ceased payment and continued to bring his vehicles to Brega DOT.
At the same time that Mr. Popkave's personal debt to Brega DOT began to pile up, Mr.
Brega noticed that Rockland BOCES was not bringing buses to be serviced in accordance with
the schedule dictated by the 2013 contract. Rockland BOCES' failure to bring buses to Brega
DOT and Mr. Popkave's failure to pay his personal bill were having a negative impact on Brega
DOT's revenues. In order to offset Brega DOT's decreased revenue, Mr. Popkave and Mr.
Brega agreed on a simple scheme: "Popkave did not need to send the buses to Brega DOT;
rather, Popkave just needed to send information to Brega DOT and Brega would invoice
Popkave as if Brega had performed preventative maintenance services on the buses — which
Brega had not — Popkave would cause Rockland BOCES to pay the bill." PSR at

if 22. Stated

simply, Mr. Brega committed fraud by falsifying invoices and bribery by forgiving Mr.
Popkave's debt in exchange for his cooperation in the fraudulent invoice scheme.2
Mr. Brega recognizes the seriousness of his conduct. While not an excuse, Mr. Brega's
criminal behavior was anomalous in what has otherwise been a life dedicated to family, friends,
serving the community, and building multiple successful, well-run businesses. Contrary to
statements in the PSR, the Rockland BOCES buses that were serviced and inspected at Brega
DOT were all safe. No Rockland BOCES passengers were harmed as a result of Mr. Brega's
actions, and the Rockland BOCES fleet had an excellent NYS DOT inspection pass rate
throughout its contracts with Brega DOT. Indeed, the Brega Companies' overall inspection and

2 It is abundantly clearly that it was Mr. Popkave, not Mr. Brega, who decided which
buses to send in to be falsely invoiced. Mr. Popkave, not Mr. Brega, determined the frequency
and quantity of buses to be billed improperly.

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safety track records demonstrate that they have provided decades of high quality bus service and
maintenance to Rockland County and its citizens.
As Mr. Brega states in his letter to the Court:
Your Honor, I do understand that there must be repercussions for
my actions. I know I did something wrong. I even met with the
prosecutors after the trial. I tried to clear up any questions they
had. I am prepared to accept any consequences you deem fair
because of my stupid and criminal actions. I assure you that I have
learned a really hard lesson and there is zero risk of me ever doing
anything like this again. I pray you will allow me an opportunity
to help my family and prove myself to my community again. I am
a very proud man. If given a chance, I know I can do well again
and make a difference in this world, like I have in the past. All I
need is a chance, and I promise you, I assure you, I will make
everyone who has ever met me proud! I beg you for leniency in
my sentencing.
A sentence of a significant period of house arrest would be more than sufficient to deter
Mr. Brega from future criminal behavior. The felony conviction alone, even without
imprisonment, has all but destroyed Mr. Brega's life. Taking all of the factors under 18 U.S.C. §
3553(a) into consideration, incarcerating Mr. Brega in prison is not necessary.

Personal History and Character Letters
Mr. Brega's family history is accurately summarized in the PSR, but we provide here
some additional information that we hope will add context to our discussion of his
accomplishments as a businessman and as a citizen.
Honorable, respected, kind, generous, decent — these words are not often used when
describing a convicted felon. Yet, these are the words used time and time again to describe
Richard Brega in the 66 attached letters submitted to the Court by Mr. Brega's wife, five
children, parents, in-laws, and brother, as well as by the dozens of friends, employees and
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members of the Rockland County community for whom Mr. Brega has been a "hero" over the
course of his life. These people know about Mr. Brega's crimes and are standing by him today,
just as Richard Brega stood by them whenever they needed help. Mr. Brega's wife, Lucinda
Brega, writes "I don't think in the 20 years I have known him he has said no to anyone."

Anyone who knows Mr. Brega will tell you that his first priority is, and always has been,
his family. "Family first" is a theme that runs throughout the letters submitted to the Court on
Mr. Brega's behalf. In the years that he was establishing himself as a businessman, Mr. Brega
still made sure to be home for dinner and bedtime with his young children, often working well
into the night after they went to sleep. Even throughout his current ordeal, he has remained the
same steadfastly loyal and involved parent, husband, son and brother. Lucinda Brega writes to
Your Honor describing the many ways, large and small, that she and her children rely on Mr.
Brega for support. Mrs. Brega worries that her family would not survive the trauma of Mr.
Brega's imprisonment.
While aware of their father's legal troubles, Mr. Brega's five children, Richard III,
Matthew, Kaitlyn,

or, as

and

, write that they still view him the center of their world,

Brega describes him, "the glue that holds everyone and everything together" in

their family. Matthew Brega implores the Court not to simply look at his father "as a man who
did something wrong, because he is so much more." After his arrest, Richard Brega not only
ceded control of his companies and refused to accept any further compensation for himself, he
made the difficult decision to insist that his own adult children, who were employed by the
Brega Companies, find other jobs. This decision has created financial strain for Mr. Brega's
children, two of whom were forced to move back home with him in order to make ends meet.
Despite their financial struggles, the Brega children understand and respect their father's desire
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to protect the Brega Companies' approximately 300 other employees and their families. As
Richard Brega III puts it, "that's the kind of man he is, always looking to help others because

he cares more about them than himself"
Richard Brega also makes time to help his elderly parents, Richard Sr. and Evelyn Ann
Brega, by fixing up their house or driving them to doctor's appointments. Evelyn Ann describes

Mr. Brega as the one who "steps up to the plate to help us." When Mr. Brega's brother, Jason
Brega, and his wife

Mr. Brega's
mother-in-law, Maria Feola, describes how, in addition to assisting her and her husband
financially, Mr. Brega would show up at her late father's house to shovel snow on his way to
work. "God only knows what any of us are going to do if you decide to send him away to
prison. Please, please don't."
With his brother facing potential jail time, Jason Brega worries that he will be unable to
support the Brega Companies and their employees by himself "Without him around to speak to,
too [sic] guide me, encourage me how will I ever be able to keep these companies going?"
Although Richard Brega is unable to run the Brega Companies in any official capacity, the Brega
Companies' future success and the livelihoods of several hundred families continue to rely on
his continued support and guidance.
In addition to these blood relatives, Richard Brega also considers the hundreds of Brega
Company employees, as well as their spouses and children, to be his family. Many of the letters
to Your Honor describe people who had been unemployed, sick, or otherwise struggling before
Richard Brega took a chance on them and gave them jobs. Alfred Pray, a former employee,
writes that "Richard has always been the type of person when your (sic) down and out, to come
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to your rescue and expect nothing in return." Lorna Mann, another Brega employee, describes
Richard Brega as "a gift from God."
Mr. Brega's generosity never ended with offering someone a job. Once a person became
a Brega employee, Mr. Brega went out of his way to get to know them on a personal level. If
someone in the shop appeared to be struggling, Mr. Brega would ask how he might help — and
help he always did. When Dennis Juste was struggling as a single father, Richard Brega gave
him overtime work to help ends meet. When Djimy Alcime needed extra money and support in
bringing his family to this county, Richard Brega was there. Edger Thomas describes how Mr.
Brega not only helped him to advance professionally, he also generously donated car seats, tires
and other crucial supplies to help the relief efforts in Mr. Thomas' home country of Haiti.
Richard Brega sponsored Luis Chapa for citizenship and helped him to get established in this
country.
When Susan Lemin's daughter-in-law passed away, Richard Brega allowed her and her
nephew as much time off as needed, never worrying about what their contracts said. When Paul
Dursi was blind-sided by a divorce, Richard Brega helped him find legal support to keep

custody of his children and later gave his son a job. Dursi writes, "[o]n his sentencing day,
please take into consideration all of the good things that Richard has done, and all of the people
that he has helped get a new beginning in life." Timothy Ehardt, a former Brega intern who
Mr. Brega encouraged to pursue an MBA, remembers that "Richard instilled integrity,
compassion and respect in every employee that worked for Brega." A long-time former
employee, Osvel Joseph, describes how Richard Brega helped Joseph's mother when she
arrived in the United States and paid for Joseph's daughter to take a school trip to Africa. To
Joseph, "he is a hero in my life."
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Richard Brega has been equally generous toward his community at large, providing free
transportation and other services to individuals and organizations in need. Mr. Brega gives his
time and money to organizations that are important to his daughters and their friends, such as the
4-H Club, Nickel-0 Farms, and other youth sports. Allan Samuels, President and CEO of the
Rockland Business Association, describes Mr. Brega as having a passion for family, community
and business. Jennifer Sernotti, a former Camp Venture employee, describes how "[w]hen
funding was tight, Mr. Brega stepped up and purchased all new uniforms for our various Special
Olympic Teams. The team was more excited that he attended games and always cheered."
Dennis Lynch writes, "From my experience with Richard over approximately four years I have

seen Richard to be a caring, giving and considerate individual who helps others without
publicity, without fanfare and without and expectation of any return for his kindness." Lynch
describes how Brega restored and donated an ambulance to be donated to a Catholic charity.
Local restaurant owner Anthony Pietrosanti writes to Your Honor that Mr. Brega and
his family came to his restaurant about once a month. During those dinners, Richard Brega
generously assisted handicapped patrons and offered business and life advice to Mr. Pietrosanti
and his daughter, who Mr. Brega was able to convince not to drop out of college. When local
deli owner Chris D'Andrea relocated to North Carolina for work, he worried that his son and
daughter would struggle to finish school and make ends meet. Richard Brega welcomed
D'Andrea's daughter into his home while she finished college and gave his son a job.
When family friend Laura Dolan gave birth to a child with

, Richard

and Lucinda were the first to provide financial and emotional support. Dolan chose Richard
Brega to be the Godfather of her baby. Bobbi Ann and Haylee Shanahan, life-long friends of
Richard Brega, write about how he supported them when their husband and father suffered from
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and later lost his battle to addiction. In addition to giving Bobbi Ann a job, Richard Brega
provided financial and other support to the Shanahan children after they lost their father. When
Mary Ann Paccione lost her son, Richard Brega was also there to support her. Paccione asks
Your Honor to "[p]lease reconsider the punishment because Richard has always been a model
citizen and the first person to offer a helping hand when one is needed." When James Coyle
needed to work evening shifts to make ends meet, Richard Brega invited Coyle's children to stay
with him. When family friend Agnes Gibs' mother passed away, Mr. Brega provided free
limousine service for the family to travel to services. Gibs describes Mr. Brega as "the most
honorable, decent person we know."

The Applicable Law Supports a Lower Guidelines Range or Below Guidelines Sentence
The PSR's suggested total offense level is 29, with a corresponding Guidelines range of
87 to 108 months. An offense level of 29 is excessive and unwarranted in this case. Many of the
enhancements listed in the calculation simply do not apply to the criminal conduct in this case.
For this reason, we respectfully submit that Mr. Brega's total offense level and resulting
Guidelines range should be significantly lower than those suggested in the PSR.
Furthermore, the remarkable personal history described above, combined with the unique
facts in this case, warrant a significant departure from the Guidelines. Even if the Court agrees
with certain aspects of the PSR's Guidelines calculation, we respectfully suggest to Your Honor
that the facts in this case warrant a sentence well below Mr. Brega's Guidelines range.

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(A)

Probation's Suggested Enhancements Should Not Apply in This Case
1.

Probation's "Total Loss" Calculation Is Excessive

The PSR lists total loss from Mr. Brega's conduct as $206,515.33, which raises his
Group 1 and Group 2 offense levels by 10 points under USSG § 2B1.1(b)(1)(F). This figure is
excessive and based on misleading and irrelevant evidence presented at trial. During trial, the
Government attempted to demonstrate that BOCES buses had fallen into disrepair on Mr.
Brega's watch, which in turn required BOCES to rent buses and replace its entire fleet. The
Government's witness was an official at Rockland BOCES, a Brega DOT competitor, with no
experience in motor vehicle maintenance and who had a vested interest in stating that Brega
DOT does a bad job of maintaining buses. This evidence did not form the basis of Mr. Brega's
convictions. The only impartial witness at trial on the issue of safety was the DOT inspector,
who testified that the BOCES buses, despite being quite old, almost always passed inspection
and would not have done so if unsafe. He also affirmed that Brega DOT had an outstanding
safety record. Given this evidence, the loss figures cited in the PSR ( 21,150.00 for bus rentals
and $105,136.21 in repairs for improper maintenance) should not be used to drastically increase
Mr. Brega's guidelines range.
The total loss figure in the PSR also fails to take into account the following: (1) Mr.
Brega attempted to make restitution to BOCES well prior to his arrest, writing a check for nearly
$11,905.08 as a refund for overbilling (see attached Letter to David Gleason); (2) BOCES
currently owes $25,052.98 in outstanding invoices to Brega DOT (see attached Brega DOT
Invoices); and (3) Mr. Brega's company has provided approximately $97,000 in free repairs to
BOCES vehicles over the course of their business relationship. These are precisely the sort of
offsets anticipated by Application Note 3(E)(1) to USSG § 2B1.1, which states that "[floss shall
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be reduced by ... the money returned, and the fair market value of the property returned and the
services rendered, by the defendant or other persons acting jointly with the defendant, to the
victim before the offense was detected."
Mr. Brega was convicted of fraud for falsifying invoices totaling $80,229.12 and paying
bribes totaling 87,221.35. He accepts responsibility for these loss amounts, which would
subject him to a 6-point, rather than a 10-point, increase in his offense levels under Groups 1 and
2. We respectfully request that the Court incorporate this adjustment when calculating Mr.
Brega's Guidelines range.
2.

The Offense Conduct Did Not Involve "Sophisticated Means"

The offense conduct in this case involved a relatively simple scheme — submitting false
invoices for work not performed in exchange for debt forgiveness. Mr. Brega's conduct did not
employ the sort of "sophisticated means" envisioned by USSG § 2B1.1(b)(10) or the
accompanying Application Note 9(B). Mr. Brega's conduct did not involve relocating to evade
law enforcement or illegal conduct outside of the United States. He did not conceal his identity
in order to hide his crimes. The invoice scheme was not "especially complex or especially
intricate" and did not involve "hiding assets or transactions, or both, through the use of fictitious
entities, corporate shells, or offshore financial accounts[.]" Application Note 9(B). Mr. Brega's
offense conduct did not constitute employing sophisticated means and should not render him
eligible for a 2-point enhancement under the Guidelines.
3.

The Offense Conduct Did Not Involve Separate Bribes

The PSR states that "the defendant permitted Popkave to service multiple cars on
multiple occasions without payment", and, therefore, a 2-point enhancement under USSG
§2C1.1(b)(1) is warranted for multiple bribes. On the contrary, the Application Note to the
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multiple bribes provision explicitly states: "[r]elated payments that, in essence, constitute a
single incident of bribery or extortion (e.g., a number of installment payments for a single
action) are to be treated as a single bribe or extortion, even if charged in separate counts."
Application Note 2. The indictment charges that Mr. Brega provided free car repairs to William
Popkave and his associates in exchange for his assistance in generating and receiving payment
on fake invoices. The bribery "payments" or free repairs were all related to a single fraudulent
scheme and the 2-point enhancement should not be applied to Mr. Brega's Guidelines
calculation.
4.

The Offense Conduct Did Not Involve a High-Level Official

Under the Guidelines, a high-level position is "characterized by a direct authority to
make decisions for, or on behalf of, a government department, agency, or other government
entity, or by a substantial influence over the decision-making process." Application Note 4 to
USSG §2C1.1(b)(3). Examples provided by the Guidelines include: "a prosecuting attorney, a
judge, an agency administrator, and any other public official with a similar level of authority.
Examples of a public official who holds a sensitive position include a juror, a law enforcement
officer, an election official, and any other similarly situated individual." Id. Mr. Popkave was in
charge of bus maintenance for a local school district. His role was not a high-level or sensitive
one warranting a 4-point enhancement for Mr. Brega under the Guidelines.
5.

Mr. Brega Was Acquitted of the Obstruction of Justice Count

A jury of Mr. Brega's peers unanimously determined that the evidence failed to prove he
had obstructed justice in this case. It would be unjust to use the Government's allegations of
obstruction of justice to increase Mr. Brega's sentence on the other counts for which he was

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convicted. Having been acquitted of Count 5, Mr. Brega should not receive a Guidelines
enhancement for obstruction of justice.
(B)

The Applicable Law Supports a Below-Guidelines Sentence
Whatever offense level the court ultimately finds is warranted, we respectfully submit

that the applicable law supports a sentence well below the corresponding guidelines range. "A
sentencing judge has very wide latitude to decide the proper degree of punishment for an
individual offender and a particular crime." United States v. Cavera, 550 F. 3d 180, 188 (2d.
Cir. 2008) (en banc). "The Guidelines are not only not mandatory on sentencing courts; they are
also not to be presumed reasonable." Nelson v. United States, 555 U.S. 350, 352 (2009).
When determining a sentencing, Courts look to the sentencing objectives enumerated in
18 U.S.C. § 3553(a)(2):
a)

to reflect the seriousness of the offense, to promote respect for the law, and to
provide just punishment for the offense;

b)

to afford adequate deterrence to criminal conduct;

c)

to protect the public from further crimes of the defendant; and

d)

to provide the defendant with the needed educational or vocational training,
medical care, or other correctional treatment in the most effective manner.

To determine a sentence that best comports with these goals, the Court should consider: (1) the
nature and circumstances of the offense and the history and characteristics of the offender; (2)
the kinds of sentences available; (3) the kind of sentence and the sentencing range established in
the Guidelines; (4) policy statements issued by the Sentencing Commission; (5) the need to
avoid unwarranted sentencing disparities among similarly situated defendants; and (6) the need
to provide restitution to any victims of the offense. See 18 U.S.C. § 3553(a)(1), (a)(3)-(7). In
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essence, the goal is for the Court to order a sentence that is "sufficient, but not greater than
necessary." 18 U.S.C. § 3553(a).
1.

The Guidelines Range is Disproportionately Driven by Loss Amount

Rather than reflecting an assessment of the factors listed in § 3553(a), the guidelines
range in this case is driven nearly exclusively by the loss amount. In cases such as this one,
"[w]here the Commission has assigned a rather low base offense level to a crime and then
increased it significantly by loss enhancement, that combination of circumstances entitles a
sentencing judge to consider a non-Guidelines sentence." United States v. Algahaim, 842 F.3d
796, 800 (2d. Cir. 2016). A number of courts in this District have recognized that imposing
guidelines sentences in fraud cases would produce unjust and disproportionate sentences. See,
e.g., United States v. Adelson, 441 F. Supp. 2d 506, 515 (S.D.N.Y. 2006), aif'd 301 Fed. Appx.
93 at *1 (departing from a Guidelines range of life in prison to sentence defendant to 42
months); United States v. Gupta, 904 F.Supp.2d 349, 350 (S.D.N.Y. 2012) (imposing a sentence
of approximately one-quarter that suggested by the Guidelines range). Indeed, while we believe
the PSR's proposed sentence of 36 months imprisonment is excessive, Probation clearly agrees
that a Guidelines sentence is unwarranted in this case. PSR at 29. We respectfully request that
the Court impose a sentence in line with this District's trend of departing dramatically from the
Guidelines when they would produce unjust results in financial fraud cases.
2.

Mr. Brega Has Accepted Responsibility for His Actions

As he has demonstrated in his letter to the Court and will demonstrate at sentencing, Mr.
Brega accepts full responsibility for his criminal behavior. He is devastated by the effects that
his actions have had on his family, friends, colleagues and community, and he has repeatedly
expressed his remorse to those who are now suffering because of his poor decisions.
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Immediately following his trial, Mr. Brega met with prosecutors in an attempt to assist their
ongoing investigation. During that meeting, he admitted to the wrongful conduct for which he
had been convicted and expressed regret for his wrongdoing. We concede that, having elected to
go to trial, Mr. Brega is not eligible for a two-point reduction under the Guidelines. We
respectfully request, however, that Your Honor take Mr. Brega's statements and actions after
trial into consideration when determining his sentence.

Restitution
The PSR recommends that the Court order Mr. Brega to pay restitution in the amount of
206,515.33, which is the total loss calculated by probation. As discussed above, we submit that
the total loss figure in this case should be far lower, eliminating the 126,286.21 in costs paid by
BOCES for bus rentals and repairs. In addition, when calculating restitution, we respectfully ask
that Your Honor consider the approximately S 134,000 in refunds, unpaid invoices, and free
services, which are not reflected in the PSR calculation and have benefitted BOCES at the Brega
Companies' expense.

Conclusion
"I wholeheartedly believe that communities are better with people
like Richard Brega in them." -Friend and customer of 22 years
"I verily believe that the unfortunate conduct which has brought
Richard before you is an aberrational blemish on an otherwise
distinguished career filled with extraordinary success and
generosity." -Business associate

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The examples and quotations in this memorandum are only a sampling of the outpouring
of support from Mr. Brega's family and friends during the lowest moment of his life. We
respectfully request that Your Honor read the attached letters with a mind open to seeing Richard
Brega as far more than the man who stood trial in your courtroom last spring. Rather, we hope
you will come to see him as the loving, honorable and generous family man, businessman, and
community member that he is.
Bearing all of these facts in mind, we respectfully urge this Court to sentence Richard
Brega to a significant period of house arrest. This sentence would balance the need for
deterrence and punishment against the recognition that Mr. Brega has otherwise led an
upstanding life of service — to his family and his community. A longer sentence is not necessary
to serve as a deterrent for Mr. Brega, who has and will continue to suffer immensely from his
mistakes.
The Court's consideration of this letter and attachments is appreciated.

Dated: November 5, 2018
Respectfully submitted,
CALHOUN & LAWRENCE
81 Main Street, Suite 504
White Plains, NY 10601
(914) 946-5900

KERRY A. LAWRENCE

REBECCA R. BROWN

17

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Mr. RichardBre a
Tomkins Cove, NY 10986
October 27, 2018
Honorable Kenneth M. Karas
United States District Judge
United States Courthouse
300 Quarropas Street
White Plains, New York 10601
Honorable Kenneth M. Karas:
I am writing this letter to you to acknowledge that I was a willing participant in the
crimes that I have been found guilty of by a jury of my peers on April 30, 2017. I take
responsibility for my illegal and dishonest behavior. I have embarrassed myself, my
wife, and my children. I have mined my family name. So many people in the Rockland
community looked up to me for years — as a good man, a business leader, an employer, a
friend, and a mentor. I have abused their trust with my criminal behavior. I have always
challenged people to follow my lead and stand up for what was right, but, in fact, I was
the one doing something wrong. I justified my actions to myself by saying that I had
given away $97,000.00 in free services to Rockland Boces. Nowhere in a business
contract does it say you are to give away anything for free. So, when William Popkave
said to me just charge Rockland Boces for all his personal auto repairs, I said to myself,
"What's the big deal?" This was such a misguided, stupid way for me to have
rationalized committing crimes by billing Boces for work not done.
This whole thing started because of a policy I put in place when I first opened my
company back in 1997. My main focus has always been to do the best job possible, make
all the vehicles safe, and don't worry about being paid when the customer picks up his
vehicle. I thought just make them happy and they will eventually pay their bill. That's
how I started the company with my first customer, and, as far as I know, it's the same
way today. I know that might sound abnormal, but it truly is the way my companies have
done business. There is no cash register in the building. The customer has always just
picked up the vehicle and left. My office would mail them out their invoice, and,
eventually, everyone for the most part paid their bill. Believe it or not, I have never had
to retain a collection agency. Truly, almost everyone eventually paid their bills. Except
William Popkave. My staff did tell me his account balance was getting really high and
he was not attempting to make any type of payments. I just told them to leave it be and

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keep sending him his monthly statements. My rationalization that the fact that William
Popkave owed me money and I did free work for Boces meant I could steal it back from
Boces was horribly stupid. Illegal and stupid.

Your Honor let me be 100% crystal clear just because I did something illegal,
something very, very stupid, does not mean I put safety at risk or put children in harm's
way! Doing something stupid is not the same as doing something dangerous. My whole
career has been about safety. I built one of the largest and most advanced maintenance
facilities in the entire State of New York. Safety, safety, safety - that's what we have
always been about. Our buildings even have a New York State-certified classroom that
holds up to 71 adults. Most of the NYS DOT Bus Inspectors get their training in my
former facility. Brega Transport has a System Safety Plan approved by the Federal
Government. This is the highest level of safety in the bus industry. We are one of the
few bus companies in the country who have one. We are the only bus company in
Rockland that has one. Not one of the Rockland Boces buses ever failed NYS DOT
Inspection because of a fraudulent invoice. In fact, Rockland Boces had one of the
highest safety records in the entire State of New York. No Boces buses ever got into an
accident due to a maintenance issue. No Boces bus ever had a defect that was found by
the bus driver or bus monitor (who are required to do a safety check on the bus twice a
day) that was not repaired immediately. NYS DOT did not find them to be unsafe and
they inspect them every six months. The buses passed inspection every time.
The manufacturer of the vehicles tells you when you should bring your vehicle in for
scheduled service. If you look at the owner's manual for the Boces buses, you will see
that 7,500 miles is the minimum interval for service. Boces was bringing the buses in
every 3,000 miles. So, if a bus missed a 3,000-mile check, that didn't mean that the bus
was unsafe. The Brega Transport System Safety Plan approved by the Federal
Government has buses coming in for service at 6,000 miles, which is, in fact, overkill.
The prosecution took pictures and showed them to the jury of buses that were not even in
service. They had no licenses plates. Some of them were taken off the road years ago.
They were junk! I accept responsibility for what I did, but I did not and would not engage
in conduct that put children at risk.
Please don't think I am making excuses for my poor decision making. I definitely should
have known better than to do what I did. Having led a business that I built from nothing
to a multi-million dollar transportation maintenance center, I still can't believe that I have
lost everything over $80,000 of fake invoices. I have tried everything I can think of to
correct my wrongdoing. I tried to give Rockland Boces some of the money back. I still

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continued to work on their buses even though they refused to pay me. They still have not
paid me to this date. Soon after my arrest I voluntarily stepped down from all my
companies. I was not required to do so but felt it would be the right thing to do. I knew
business would take a down turn so I removed all three of my children from the
businesses, and my wife and I stopped receiving any income from those businesses,
Again, this was not demanded or required to be done. I just felt it was the right thing to
do. All those non-family member employees believed in me. They came to work for me,
because I promised them a good and secure future. There was no way I wasn't going to
try everything I knew how to do, to not let them down.
I used to be a fairly wealthy man, but, after I was arrested, I took just about everything I
had saved and put it back into the business. Brega's guaranteed payroll was always met
and everyone got to keep their medical insurance. My business attorneys and financial
planners told me to take out as much money from the companies as possible and put it all
in a trust for my wife and my children. Then they would be set for a very long time. I
didn't listen. I'm sure that it was really good advice, but I did something wrong and I
needed to be able to face the world and know in my heart I tried everything to make
things right. If I set up those trusts, all my employees would have to be let go and their
lives would have been ruined. We were responsible for transporting 500 disabled
children every day. I had to make sure they were taken care of. We transport over
10,000 commuters every day. Without my company or more importantly my employees,
how would all those hard working people get to work and back home every day to their
families?
I have put my family in a really bad place. Richard III, Mathew, and Kaitlyn had to find
employment elsewhere and are now making substantially less money. They can barely
is bullied sometimes in school because of my
make ends meet to even exist.
actions, and"... still has nightmares. My wife Lucinda
She walks around in a fog. She probably
should not be driving a car at this point. My brother Jason and my parents are falling
apart, and can barely function. Everyone is in a serious depression.
The Federal Transit Administration has debarred me for three years. I cannot work in the
only industry I have ever known. My reputation in the bus industry has gone from being
one of the industry's great leaders and innovators to becoming an embarrassment and a
disgrace. I have gone from being on everyone's VIP list at every event in town, to sitting
around hoping maybe a friend will call to say hello. All of this because I didn't have the
sense to tell William Popkave no, and not do dishonest things.
During the trial, you heard the prosecution's witnesses who were testifying against me

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(Brandon Sweeting, Bobbi Ann Lepore, and Valerie Kafka) tell the jury, Richard Brega
told us no matter what do not lie, tell the truth. I didn't ask anyone to try and withhold
information or hide anything from the goverment. While I went to trial, I did not testify
and did not lie. I went to trial because I didn't want to be convicted.
Your Honor, I do understand that there must be repercussions for my actions. I know I
did something wrong. I even met with the prosecutors after the trial. I tried to clear up
any questions they had. I am prepared to accept any consequences you deem fair because
of my stupid and criminal actions. I assure you that I have learned a really hard lesson
and there is zero risk of me ever doing anything like this again. I pray you will allow me
an opportunity to help my family and prove myself to my community again. I am a very
proud man. If given a chance, I know I can do well again and make a difference in this
world, like I have in the past. All I need is a chance, and I promise you, I assure you, I
will make everyone who has ever met me proud! I beg you for leniency in my
sentencing.
Respectfully,

Richard Brega

 Case 7:17-cr-00058-KMK Document 45-1 Filed 11/05/18 Page 5 of 115

Agnes Gibs
Pearl River, New York 10965

Oct 15, 2018

Honorable Kenneth M. Karas
United States District Judge
United States Courthouse
300 Quarropas Street
White Plains, NY 10601

Dear Judge Karas,
My name is Agnes Gibs and I am a resident for over fifty years in Pearl River.
The way I met the Brega family is an unforgettable memory. Richard's brother, Kevin, was born
the same time at Nyack Hospital as my daughter. Evelyn, Richards's mother, and I were in the
same room and we became inseparable friends to this day.
I got to know Richard since he was 2 years old. He was very good friends with my son Jeffrey
all through growing up. My husband and I saw Richard through his young years becoming a
great young man. When my mother passed away, it was Richard who reached out and offered
to drive my family to the funeral in his grandfather's limo. He has always been the most
respectful and kind person and we love him very much.
We wish him the best and please consider the fact that he has always been the most honorable,
decent person we know.

Sincerely,

 Case 7:17-cr-00058-KMK Document 45-1 Filed 11/05/18 Page 6 of 115

Alfred Pray
1111111111111111
Pomona, NY 10970
September 12, 2018
Honorable
Kenneth M. Karas
United States District Judge
United States Court House
300 Quarropas St.
White Plains, NY 10601
Dear Honorable Kenneth M. Karas,
Thank you for taking the time in reading this letter in regards to the convictions against
Richard Brega and his upcoming sentencing. I have known Richard Brega for many years and
working for him either part time or full time since the start of him building his business that he
was so passionate about. I have the most upmost respect for this man in seeing his dreams and
pursuing his goals in the transportation business. His perseverance and watching him grow his
business from a garage with four empty walls to slowly adding equipment, customers and
employees to sustain the expansion of his maintenance facility was quite impressive.

Besides servicing customers vehicles for maintenance he has a real desire to transport
consumers with special needs from their homes to their day programs. In doing so he designed
buses that would accommodate these consumers in a safe and comfortable manor.

I have made many career changes in my life and would always share my thoughts with Richard
so I could be given any feedback for which I always respected. There was a time when I had my
own business for 8 year providing a handyman service, that the economy had forced me to shut
down that business. It was then again I approached Richard for employment. He was well
aware of my work ethics and dedication to offer me a position of my choice.

Richard has always been the type of person where if he sees you have great potential in being a
part of his team, he will nurture and groom you with confidence that you can fill the position
that you would like to set out and achieve.

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Richard has always been the type of person when your down and out, to come to your rescue
and expect nothing in return. I have witnessed so many examples of current and prior to his
conviction. Previous employees that have benefited from his generosity and emotional support
in helping them threw a difficult time.

At this point in time after having written this letter, I am asking to please take into
consideration the great qualities Richard Brega has exemplified over the course of many years I
have known him. He is a man of great integrity and has been an asset to his community for
many years.

Sincerely,/

Alfred Pray

 Case 7:17-cr-00058-KMK Document 45-1 Filed 11/05/18 Page 8 of 115

illF6)1C

IT
Pomona, NY 0970

October 9, 2018
Hon. Kenneth M. Karas
United States District Judge
United States Courthouse
300 Quarropas Street
White Plains, NY 10601
Dear Judge Karas:
1 am writing on behalf of Richard Brega who is scheduled to come before you next
month for sentencing. This is something very difficult for me to process as the man I
know shouldn't be in this circumstance.
1 am a member of the Board of Directors of the Volumetric Fund, a no-load, mutual fund
headquartered in Rockland County. I first got to know the Brega family in this capacity
because of their involvment with the Fund.
The Bregas, all of them, are dedicated to each other and Richard, perhaps, best
exemplifies this characteristic. His passion for family can be described in many ways,
but the one most personal to me would be his dedication to his daughters and their love
of horses. This is an area of little knowledge for Richard, but he applied himself with
great dedication to give his girls a meaningful experience in an activity of great
importance to them. They belonged to the G&M Riding Club in Orange County, NY, a
group presided over by one of my sons..
I have a very long history of involvement with many aspects of the horse world —
boarding, training, racing and rodeo. I often volunteered to help-out at their shows and
always saw Richard, who was almost student-like in picking our brains for information
that would be helpful to his daughters.
He attended all their shows, provided financial support to the Club (which benefitted all
its members) and helped to continue the tradition of "family" in this group that is the
oldest horse club in the region.

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I came to know Richard in a business context, as well. And, I saw the same passion and
dedication exhibited in this area of his life.
As President/CEO of the Rockland Business Association, I was an advocate for the
transportation maintenance facility Richard built in Rockland. Clearly (and without
question) this is the most modern facility in the region. Richard's dedication to this
project transcended pure commercial interests. He was building it for the community;
he was building it for Rockland; he was building it for family.
This is the man I came to know which, as noted, might not compute with the man who
will stand before you for sentencing. I just wanted you to know that Richard is more than
that.
Thank you for allowing me to share this with you.

 Case 7:17-cr-00058-KMK Document 45-1 Filed 11/05/18 Page 10 of 115

October 8, 2018
AnthonyPietrosanti
Mahopac, NY 10541
Honorable Kenneth M. Karas
United States District Judge
United States Courthouse
300 Quarropas Street
White Plains, NY 10601
The Honorable Judge Karas,
I write you this letter in reference to my good friend, Richard Brega. I am aware of his
conviction, but it doesn't make any sense to me. Rich is an honorable and humble
man. This is totally out of his character. There must be more the story because it
doesn't seem like we are talking about the same person.
I met Rich in 2009 at my restaurant in Peekskill, NY. Rich comes to my restaurant
about once a month with his family. We hit it off right away because I love to talk
about business, and Rich is a great person with whom to discuss business ideas. For
example, Rich helped me rewrite my business plan to redevelop a new concept for my
restaurant. He was so helpful to me and I took his great advice.
We both have kids and have a lot in common as we are "hands on" dads with our
children. I remember just about a few months ago, my daughter was thinking of
dropping out of college. I was at a dead end and didn't know what else to do to
change her mind. She was at the restaurant one night, and Rich and his family came
to dine. She loves talking to Rich and starting to tell him about her desire to drop out.
Rich took the time to advise her of what a bad idea this was and how she shouldn't
give up. He explained how his three older children didn't have a college degree and
how hard it was for them now while he was going through his troubles. Rich was very
open about how he did something wrong and how making bad choices can affect your
life. The moral of this story is that my daughter decided not to drop out of college! I
truly believe that Rich's talk had an impact on her.
Rich only wishes good things for people. He is a really kind, caring, and giving man. I
knew what a good person he was when I would see him leave the table each time
someone needed help with our handicap wheelchair accessible door I have in the rear
exit of the restaurant. He didn't hesitate for a second to get up to help them.

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I try to comp Rich's dinner at the restaurant, but he always insists on paying his own
way. He tells me after I make my first million free and clear, that then I can buy him
dinner!
Please your honor, 1 ask you for leniency in Rich's sentencing. He is worth so much
more to our community if he is free to continue to help people. Thank you.
Sincerely,

Anthony Pietrosanfi

 Case 7:17-cr-00058-KMK Document 45-1 Filed 11/05/18 Page 12 of 115

Honorable Kenneth M. Karas

July 10, 2018

United States District Judge
United States Courthouse
300 Quarropas Street
White Plains, NY 10601

Dear Judge Karas:

I am writing to you regarding the upcoming sentencing of Richard Brega following his recent
convictions.
I reside in Ulster County, have a family with 2 grown children and a wife of over 30 years. I am
involved in my community having served on the board of numerous community groups ranging
from home owners associations through local Boy Scout committees. I have worked to instill a
sense of volunteerism and integrity in my family and surrounding community, it's part of who I
am.
In September of 2012 I was involved in an incident (I stopped a bar fight) that resulted in me
being charged with two felonies (Assault & Gang Assault). All criminal charges were dismissed
and the civil case dropped.
It was before this came to an end, with these charges pending against me, that I met Richard.
He had a position within his organization to create, build and run a new business. Richard could
see in me the qualities he wanted in a person he would entrust with such a daunting task. Hiring
me as the manager of a new company showed to me was willing to look past any potential
personal issues and give a person a second chance in life. Up until then this was an enormous
stumbling block professionally and personally for me.
It was this second chance and trust he put in me that is typical of the generous and giving
person I knew as my boss Richard. I saw Richard go out of his way to talk with and help other
employees in any way he could and it is the sum of these qualities and my experiences that has
taught me to take measure of a person as a whole.
I respectfully ask that my experiences with and what I learned from Richard be taken into
consideration when considering his future.

Sincerely,

Bernhard Obry

 Case 7:17-cr-00058-KMK Document 45-1 Filed 11/05/18 Page 13 of 115

Honorable Kenneth M. Karas
United States District Judge
United States Courthouse
300 Quarropas Street
White Plains, NY 10601
October 15, 2018
Dear Honorable Kenneth M. Karas,
I am writing in regard to Richard Brega Jr and his upcoming sentencing. My
name is Bobbi Ann Lepore and I have lived in Valley Cottage, New York my entire life.
am a mother of four children. I recently have moved to Seminole, Florida this past
August. I graduated from Nyack High School in 1983. During my junior and senior year,
I went to Rockland County Boces in West Nyack, New York to obtain my License
Practical Nurse Degree. After graduation, I started to work at Nyack Hospital, and 1
worked from June 1983 to June of 1995. During the year of 1995 in December, I had my
second child. I became a stay at home mom. In 2003, I filed for a divorce due to my
husband's addiction which led to an abusive relationship which left me a single mom of
four children. [In and out of court to protect the welfare of my children, and to also help
my ex-husband get the help he needed.)
At the age of five, Richard Brega Jr and I, were ring bearer and flower girl at my
sister, and his uncle's wedding. That led to spending a lot of vacations and holidays
together. But through the years, we both took our own roads in life. During my divorce in
2004, Richard reached out to me and gave me an opportunity to get out of the house by
working some days when his secretary needed time off. This is when our friendship
picked up again. During my entire divorce, he was the main person in my life that
helped me with all the mental support. Between being in and out of court, filing for order
of protections against my ex-husband, it all was just exhausting. Also, during that time I
was caring for my mother who was dying of cancer. This is when all of the support from
Richard Brega came into hand. In November of 2009 when he expanded his business in
Clarkstown Executive Park, I was offered a full-time job from 8am to 5pm as a
receptionist. In 2010, Richard Brega gave me an opportunity to better myself, and to
learn a new career path as a Service Writer. With that being said, I had a lot to learn,
and many classes to take. I have watched Richard Brega achieve his dream and give
the opportunity to many local people in the county many with some or no experience at
all like myself. In October of 2009, I have experienced the loss of my best friend, my
mom, due to cancer. Richard Brega was nothing but supportive and gave me the
strength that I needed. As for myself, Richard understands the closeness of family, and
the support that they need.

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In 2012, he gave my daughter Ashiee an opportunity to become a Receptionist
when we were awarded the Preschool contract, with no experience at all. Being at the
age of 22, going to college to get her masters, he realized she needed a job to pay for
her bills, and to help with her education. This led to her graduating from Mount Saint
Vincent with her masters degree in education. She has worked in Truman High School
in the Bronx, and is now currently teaching in Clearwater, Florida. As well as my
daughter, he has also given the opportunity to my two sons to get a part-time job to earn
some extra money while in high school by cleaning the buses and helping around in the
shop. Over the years of knowing Richard Brega, I have realized a lot about his
character, and the way he looks out for people. While working at Brega I felt like I was in
my safe place. All the employees at Brega looked out for one another just like family
and this is all thanks to Richard Brega Jr. This is a man who would stop his busy day, to
listen to others personal issues not only regarding work. With that being said, Richard
Brega would always go out of his way to walk around his facility, and to greet his
employees, and ask how their well-being is.
Richard is a very honorable and respected man by all the lives that he has
touched. We have spent endless hours of talking about life, family, and our children.
Over the years, I have been physically and verbally abused, not only by my ex-husband
who passed away in 2011 due to addiction, but by my son
1111111111111111.1111111. During this time, it was Richard Brega, who stood by me and
talked me through situations that I could never thought I could get through. In and out of
court with my son, Richard who not only helped me through it but understood when I
needed the time off. He let me leave for court, and not once ever asked me to make up
for those hours. He has taken on the responsibility, with not being asked to help mentor
my son who is currently living back in New York. He has been guiding him and trying to
give him the opportunity to live on his own, and to take on those responsibilities. This is
a huge task to take on due to my son's
This is a man,
who not only worries about his own children, but will look out for my children and treats
them as they are his own. He not only does this out of his character, but he knows it
helps me ease my mind with all the stress I am under. Even with his upcoming
sentencing, nothing has changed, he continues to put others first and help wherever he
possibly can. This is a man, like no other man I have ever met.
During the four years of investigation leading to the guilty verdict of Richard
Brega, I have been one of the witnesses of the prosecutors. For the past four years,
have been beaten down by the FBI by repeatedly asking me questions of situations
which I honestly had no answers for. With that being said, [I consecutively been seeing
111111111111]

1111 Through the dozen times I was called in for questioning, not once did Richard
Brega ask what was said to me. Even though it made me feel like I would have a
nervous breakdown. Being the man Richard Brega is, he had taken on the

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responsibility to pay for all of my attorney legal fees. He knew I wasn't able to talk about
anything with him, so he took on that responsibility, so I wouldn't feel alone, and I was
always protected. [Richard Brega, quote on quote words, "Always tell the truth!".] This
has been something I have always lived by with the divorce of my ex-husband, and the
conflicts with my son. I have also used it with my everyday life, and also repeatedly
instill this into my children to tell the truth.
I am aware of the guilty verdict, but I hope you take my letter into consideration of
Richard Brega upcoming sentencing of the character that I know he has. The difficulties
I am going through with my own children, Richard and I have spoken about how parallel
our lives are when it comes to our children's issues. By sending him away, his five
children and family will be impacted severely. How would him serving time in jail do any
good? Out of respect for his family and people that need him, please take this into deep
consideration.
Sincerely,

Bobbi Ann Lepore

 Case 7:17-cr-00058-KMK Document 45-1 Filed 11/05/18 Page 16 of 115

Honorable Kenneth M. Karas
United States District Judge
United States Courthouse
300 Quarropas Street
White Plains, NY 10601

Monday, September 3, 2018

Dear Judge Karas,
I am writing to you regarding the upcoming sentencing of Richard Brega following his recent
convictions.
My residence is in Stony Point, NY. I have 4 grown children and have been married for 29 years.
I am self-employed and a proud owner of Mt. View Deli and Caterers. It has been a family
business for 38 years in Rockland County, NY. I graduated from Saint Joseph's Regional High
School and went on to Rockland Community College for two years before entering the family
business. My wife and I have known Richard for twenty-one years as well as the entire Brega
Family.
About six years ago, I had taken my family and moved to North Carolina where I opened a new
business. It took a lot out of my marriage and relationship with the children. I still held onto
my business in New York where I had left my brother-in-law in charge. We had many issues to
face, one being about six months after we opened, my daughter had to go back to New York to
finish college. Rich was kind enough to let my daughter live there while she finished her
semester. While I was traveling back and forth between New York and North Carolina, Rich
insisted I also stay at their home. Having both of us there was a huge favor as it would have
been unaffordable to stay at hotels for myself and the dorms for my daughter, as well as her
having the support system she needed without her immediate family.
During my evenings at the Brega household, Rich and I would meet and talk; he would listen to
my issues and problems. He was a huge help in keeping me focused in talking about the issues I
had and attacking them every day. He was very supportive and a big part of my comeback as a
businessman, family man, and a husband. When you have two businesses that are spiraling
downwardsit's mentally taxing, along with the family tugging at you everyday. Rich was there

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like a firewall to help keep me going down the right path. When he noticed that my wife and I
were having issues and I sold my business down south, he was nice enough to take us to Vegas
to help us work things out. Finally, we all moved back to New York and stayed with Rich until
we found an apartment to rent, which took a couple of weeks. He also hired my oldest son,
who was unemployed after we returned from NC. Everything worked out great; my marriage
and children are all doing well. If it wasn't for Rich, I'm not sure how this would've all played
out. I owe him everything and then some.
Upon his sentencing, please take into account all of the things that he has done to help myself
and my family. Thank you for your time and consideration.

Chris D'Andrea

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Clara Humphrey
Thiells, NY 10984
October 12, 2018
Honorable Kenneth M. Karas
United States District Judge
United States Courthouse
300 Quarropas St.
White Plains, NY 10601
Honorable Kenneth M Karas,
I am writing to you on behalf of Richard Brega. I am aware that Mr. Brega has been
found guilty of charges that were brought against him. I am submitting this letter as
consideration for his sentencing.
My name is Clara Humphrey. I live in Rockland County New York with my husband and
3 sons. I am a graduate of North Rockland High School as well as St. Thomas Aquinas
College. There I received a bachelor in business administration. I currently work for TD
Bank as a Financial Service Representative.
My husband and I have known Richard about 20 years. Both he and his wife have always
been so supportive and generous to our family. Richard has supported my boy's
throughout their endeavors, such as donating to their fundraisers for school, boy scouts,
soccer and baseball. He always bought raffle tickets, ads and whatever else we needed to
sell. For the past few years he has loaned us his SUV, so that we could more easily move
our children into their college dorms. Richard had also provided our oldest son with an
internship for 2 years with Brega DOT. This gave him invaluable skills that he could use
for the rest of his life.
My husband and I are always working in order to provide for our family. So it has been
hard to take our family on vacations. Richard and Lucinda always invited our youngest
son on their family vacations. They have taken him to the beach, waterparks, and even to
his first experience at Disney World.
Richard has been a great help in my family's life and mine for over 20 years. I would
hope that you take all of this into consideration while you are placing judgment upon
him.
Sincerely,

Clara Humphrey

 Case 7:17-cr-00058-KMK Document 45-1 Filed 11/05/18 Page 19 of 115

Dale TeriIli

111•1111111111
Nanuet, NY 10954

11111111111111

October 9, 2018
Honorable Kenneth M. Karas
United States District Judge
United States Courthouse
300 Quarropas St.
White Plains, NY 10601
Honorable Kenneth M. Karas,
My husband Bruno TeriIli and I first met Richard in 2002. My mothers Braun
Ability (handicap van) ramp was not working. We brought it to Brega D.O.T.
Maintenance Corp. for repairs. Within the hour it was repaired. While waiting for
the work to be done, Richard mentioned they were looking bus drivers for a new
venture he was starting. This was the beginning of the company Brega Transport
Corp. transporting disabled adults to Camp Venture.
My husband had recently retired and was hired as the first bus driver to begin the
new bus service. It was a very busy and wonderful place to work. He retired
finally in 2015.
We have always had the greatest respect for Richard. His continued high
standard and work ethics has earned the respect and perhaps sometimes envy of
his success.
Another example of Richard's exemplary standard is being available to the
community when there has been fund raising for the less publicized
organizations. He is known for his kindness and generosity to support these
various sometimes underfunded groups.

 Case 7:17-cr-00058-KMK Document 45-1 Filed 11/05/18 Page 20 of 115

My great niece was born deaf and has always been encouraged to take on daily
challenges to make her life experiences normal and not restricted by her
disability.
She began horse back riding at the COPS therapeutic equestrian program in
Nanuet several years ago. Riding horses increased her self confidence and made
her fearless to try many other life enhancing activities.
The program could only be available a few months of the year due to inclement
weather and seasonal changes. They wanted to make this program available to
many more students and year long access. The long and arduous project needed
funding and Richard simply asked, "what do you need?"
Richard has so much to offer and I appeal to you for leniency when you consider
his sentencing.
Sincerely yours,

Dale Terilli

 Case 7:17-cr-00058-KMK Document 45-1 Filed 11/05/18 Page 21 of 115

David Peters
Fishkill, NY 12524

Friday, October 12th, 2018
Honorable Kenneth M. Karas
United States District Judge
United States Courthouse
300 Quarropas Street
White Plains, NY 10601
Re: Richard Brega Jr.
Dear Judge, Karas;
I have known and conducted business with Richard Brega jr. for the better part of
twenty-two years. For nearly all of this time, I have worked for a school and
commercial bus distributorship that is 30 miles west of Albany, NY off the NYS
Thruway.
Throughout this time and to this present day) I have partnered with Richard and
his company on the in-service of new customer vehicles and the repair of vehicles
already in service for customers of mine in the lower to mid-Hudson Valley. Without
exception, as a customer of his, I have always been more than satisfied with the
treatment that I (my employer, and my customers) have received from Richard.
In early 2002, and then again in 2012 Richard became MY customer. He purchased
buses from me for a new business operation for Camp Venture. But Richard did
something that rarely - if ever happens is this line of work, instead of purchasing the
least expensive, cost efficient wheel chair accessible vehicle, he designed buses that
were extra-ordinarily nicer and more pleasurable to ride in than the standard
cookie-cutter bus. This came at an extra expense to Richard (and was a multiple
unit order besides), but he did it in order to make that small portion of someone
else's life better. This is the Richard Brega that I know.
Outside of the normal routines of work, my wife and I have had the pleasure of
spending time with Richard and Lucinda in the occasional social setting. In fact,
Richard's entire extended family each and every one I've met - such nice people it only confirmed for me the high caliber of individual that Richard is.

 Case 7:17-cr-00058-KMK Document 45-1 Filed 11/05/18 Page 22 of 115

I've wrestled for months with the predicament that Richard presently finds himself
in. But I am convinced of this: I wholeheartedly believe that our communities are
better with people like Richard Brega in them.
Respectfully,
•

,

C

D Cd. Pa-eAtk

2

 Case 7:17-cr-00058-KMK Document 45-1 Filed 11/05/18 Page 23 of 115

Dennis Juste

111111111111

Spring Valley, NY 10977
October 18, 2018

Honorable Kenneth M. Karas
United States District Judge
United States Courthouse
300 Quarropas St.
White Plains, NY 10601
Honorable Kenneth M. Karas,
My name is Dennis Juste, I 'ye worked for Richard Brega as a mechanic. I am responsible for the
maintenance off the buses. I can honestly say for the past 5 years that I've work for Mr.
Richard Brega he has treated me fairly. He had given me a job that was secure. Mr. Richard is
very respectable towards the team. I really have no complaint he is a very good man for me. I
was in financial trouble and I asked him for money. He said I can give you more work, so you
can work over time and make time and a half. Mr. Richard let me work on my cars on my time
and lets me park them in his parking lot at no charge till I can sell them to make extra money. If
I he has to go to jail I would be willing to spend time instead of him. Because he has helped me
in some many ways. I am a divorced man raising 2 children and put them though college.
Because of all the extra work Mr. Richard has given me. I was able to watch my children
graduate college.

Dennis Juste

 Case 7:17-cr-00058-KMK Document 45-1 Filed 11/05/18 Page 24 of 115

DENNIS E. A. LYNCH, ESQ.
1111111111111111111
SOUTH NYACK, NEW YORK 10960

October 1, 2018
Hon. Kenneth M. Karas
United States District Judge
United States Courthouse
300 Quarropas Street
White Plains, New York 10601
Re:

United States v. Brega

Dear Judge Karas:
As the Record confirms, Richard Brega, Jr. ("Richard") is before you for sentencing.
Richard has advised of the guilty verdict and that he accepts responsibility for what he was
convicted of This letter relates to his upcoming Sentencing before you.
Although I have known "of' Richard for many years from media stories, I only truly
knew him personally when I was asked to assist his Company with regard to legal issues that do
not relate at all to his conviction. From media reports "about" Richard, he seemed to be
someone concerned only about running a big company, enjoying headlines and otherwise not
caring about anything other than himself or his business. As I got to know Richard personally,
however, I am fully aware that this picture of him is completely wrong. From my experience
with Richard over approximately four years I have seen Richard to be a caring, giving and
considerate individual who helps others without publicity, without fanfare and without any
expectation of any return for his kindness. I can provide to you one great example of the
foregoing.
Myself and others have been involved with building Medial Clinics for the Catholic
Diocese of Sunyani, Ghana, West Africa for many years. For me this is redemptive work after
being a litigator for many years. Having a Medical Clinic built in a very poor area is a true
blessing for those residing in such areas. Without transportation to get people from their
Villages or homes to the Medical Clinic, however, that Medical Clinic serves no purpose.
Therefore, a great demand existed for an ambulance that could transport people from where they
are sick to the nearby Medical Clinics that myself and others were able to see constructed.

 Case 7:17-cr-00058-KMK Document 45-1 Filed 11/05/18 Page 25 of 115

DENNIS E. A. LYNCH, ESQ.
HON. KENNETH M. KARAS
OCTOBER 1,2018
PAGE Two

In late 2015 I was speaking with Richard about the need for a used donated ambulance to
be repaired, painted and otherwise restored so it could be shipped to Ghana, West Africa.
Immediately, Richard volunteered not only to do the mechanical repairs, a complete new paint
job for the ambulance as well as other restoration. Richard also made a substantial contribution
to have the ambulance shipped to Ghana from his Company Headquarters in New York. Richard
offered his assistance without any prompting, without any expectation for publicity or otherwise
in any manner other than to help others. This is one example of Richard's substantial charitable
effort. I know he has also been also involved with smaller charitable efforts by helping to
provide transportation for free and even food to people who are needy at his own expense.
Finally, when considering what harm Richard may have done to the community with
regard to his guilty conviction, I ask you to consider and balance the many good things that he
has done for the community such as referenced in this correspondence. I thank you for
considering the foregoing with regard to the sentencing of Richard.

DEAL/sd

 Case 7:17-cr-00058-KMK Document 45-1 Filed 11/05/18 Page 26 of 115

Djimy Alcime

1111111111111111111111
Nyack, NY 10960

October 18, 2018
Honorable Kenneth M. Karas
United States District Judge
United States Courthouse
300 Qua rropas St.
White Plains, NY 10601
Honorable Kenneth M. Karas,
My name is Djimy Alcime. I know Richard Brega was found guilty. I met my boss
Richard Brega 12-30-2013 when he hired me. My friend Osvel introduced me to
Mr. Richard and said I needed a job.
I am very happy to explain to you something about Mr. Richard. I didn't have any
tools, but I had a little experience being a mechanic back in Haiti. He hired me
and said I could use his tools to get started. He was a great boss, he always
treated me with respect. He always has helped me. Mr. Richard has given me
free parts to fix my car and my family's cars. Did not charge me labor either. He
lets me work on other people's car on my own time and make money for myself.
When I had a problem in my Country Haiti Mr. Richard gave me money with no
interest. He helped me bring my family to the United States. No one else do
things like this.
Please with all my heart I ask if you put him in jail please let me do 1 month for
him, so he can continue to help others like he has helped me.

01
Djimy Alcime

to t

 Case 7:17-cr-00058-KMK Document 45-1 Filed 11/05/18 Page 27 of 115

Edger Thomas
Spring Valley, NY 10977
October 18, 2018
Honorable Kenneth M. Karas
United States District Judge
United States Courthouse
300 Qua rropas St.
White Plains, NY 10601
Honorable Kenneth M. Karas,
I am Edger a US resident for over 10 years and 8 years in Rockland County.
I know Richard Brega was found guilty.
My first day I started work at Brega was October 21, 2013. I worked as a part time bus monitor
for $10.50 an hour. A few months later I became a bus cleaner full time and got a raise to
$12.00 an hour. Mr. Richard asked me why you don't become a bus driver. Mr. Richard helped
me get my CDL permit. Mr. Richard gave me free training and gave me the bus for the road
test. Now I am a CDL bus driver making $18.00 per hour. Having my CDL license has helped me
work over time when there was extra work fueling buses at night. Which pays time and a half.
Mr. Richard also give me free used tires, so I can send them to my Country Haiti. I can sell them
there to make more money for my family and myself. He also said if I give away to the church
in Haiti he is given me six hundred car seats that his company no longer needs as well so all the
children there can be safe in the car. He also has a car wash and he let me wash my car and my
wife's car for free whenever I want to. I pray for him every day. Please Judge let god give you
the guidance you need to help the man who has helped so many of us. He always gives me a
vehicle when I need to move things to make extra money for myself. Because of Mr. Richard's
support and guidance, I was able to put my daughter through Mercy College. Now my son is in
his 15t year of Rockland Community College.
This letter is not a letter to support Mr. Richard in the wrong doing. It is a letter to show how
great of a man he was to myself, family, my church, and my friends. As of today, I still work at
Brega and I am very proud of it. I even have a 401k for my retirement someday.

1

Edger Thoms._

17072 cc,/,)

 Case 7:17-cr-00058-KMK Document 45-1 Filed 11/05/18 Page 28 of 115

September 27, 2018
Honorable Kenneth M. Karas
United States District Judge
United States Courthouse
300 Quarropas Street
White Plains, NY 10601
Dear Judge Karas.
My name is Evelyn Ann Brega, Mother of Richard Thomas Brega,
I am a 72 year old retired office manager and homemaker.
My education is a High School Graduate.
I have known my son Richard since the day he was born, 51 years ago.
I am aware of his guilty verdict and my letter is submitted in connection with his
sentencing.
1967, he as been an outstanding son.
Since the day Richard was born
As a small boy he was always working side by side his Father and Grandfather
learning the family business (Peter Brega, Inc.). He started sweeping busses,
emptying garbage cans and going on errands with his Grandfather at about the
age of 8. He was always interested in working and expanding this family business.
Twenty Eight years ago, when Richard was just 23 years old, he surprised his Father
and I with a 25th. Wedding Anniversary Party for 100 people at the Pearl River Hilton.
Two (2) years prior to the party, he opened a savings account that he put a designated
amount of money into weekly. He collected from his two younger brothers also weekly
to add to the "Anniversary Fund." Our sons gave us the finest, most elegant party we
had ever been to! My husband and I were asked to purchase a new dress and a new
suit for our evening out. Nothing in our closet was suitable for this occasion.
He had his Grandfather's Private Limousine pick us up at home to take us to our
mystery celebration. He even arranged to have the Chauffeur who drove us to our
Wedding, drive us again to our 25th. Anniversary celebration. What an amazing
depth of character!
Richard has always been a visionary. He helped build the house we currently live in
today. He also restored an old Colonial Home he purchased when he got married at
the age of 25. He worked tirelessly and continuously raising a family, and starting
his own private business.

 Case 7:17-cr-00058-KMK Document 45-1 Filed 11/05/18 Page 29 of 115

M husband and I are not in the best of health.

My husband Richard Sr. is 73 and has

Our son Richard Jr. has always been the man we have turned to when we needed
direction, advise or rides to consult with doctors on behalf of our well being.
He has always tried to solve our problems and make it all better.
He steps up to the plate to help us.
My husband and I have invested our retirement income into Richard and his business.
He has been disbarred for the next 3 years by the Federal Government & now facing
a prison sentence. What are we going to do?
Without his guidance, 300 local people will most likely lose their jobs.
Richard has a wife and 5 children who crucially need his presence and direction.
There is no way his wife Lucinda can take care of all 5 children.
The oldest children are from Richard's first marriage and their Mother is moving to
Florida and she told the kids they are on their own.
Richard did admit to us that he did something wrong.
He is a proud and honorable man who got caught up with trying to help a friend who
was in over his head and was in major financial trouble. That's my son Richard, always
trying to help someone. He has touched so many peoples lives in his 51 years of
existence and we all really depend on him.
I ask you to please take this into consideration when you decide his sentencing.
Thank you for giving me the opportunity to submit this letter to you.
Sincereily Yours,
A
Evelyn Ann Brega

 Case 7:17-cr-00058-KMK Document 45-1 Filed 11/05/18 Page 30 of 115

Francis H. Walker III
1111111111111111111
Franklin, NJ 07416
111111111111111
09/01/18
Honorable Kenneth M. Karas
United States District Judge
United States Courthouse
300 Qua rropas Street
White Plains, NY 10601
Dear Honorable Kenneth M. Karas,
I am writing this letter today in regard to Richard Brega Jr and his recent
conviction. It is with most importance that I would like to relay a deep respect
for Richard Brega Jr., whom I have known for the past seven years.
I have worked in the bus industry for nearly 27 years. Your honor it's the
customer who is responsible to bring their vehicle in for repair. The mechanic
shop cannot make them. I take a lot of pride in my craft and it's really upsetting
to see how Richard, or our company is being blamed for the alleged condition of
Boces buses, when we are not permitted to repair them. The buses are then
taken to our competitor and they find all kinds of problems. In 2009 I met
Richard Brega and was offered the position of Shop Manager in 2012. His belief
in my abilities afforded me an opportunity for a better life for me and my family.
I was able to provide my family with health benefits and a stable life. Through
these past years of working hand in hand with Richard Brega, I came to realize
first hand that he is a man of integrity and deeply cares about his employees and
their families. !ended up with all1111111111and NEM which
required surgery. As when as being diagnosed
which also
. I quickly used up my sick time but
that didn't matter to Richard. He gave me off all the time I needed with full pay.
He never made me use my vacation time that1 have accumulated. He told me
that was time I needed to use to relax, reenergize, and go some ware with my
family. In 2013 Richard hired my son in the Parts Dept. which gave him a chance

 Case 7:17-cr-00058-KMK Document 45-1 Filed 11/05/18 Page 31 of 115

to learn and grow within the company. Time and time again, he has given
opportunities to others to work, grow, and succeed. He ever removed his own
children from the business, so no non-family employees would not have to be let
go because of the deep decline in business after his arrest.
Richard provided an atmosphere of caring, family and honor to me and many
others within his former companies.
It is my sincere hope that these outstanding qualities are taken into consideration
at his sentencing. As he has provided me with a sense of family, I am also
deeply aware of how this has affected his wife and children. I believe Richard
Brega Jr to be a valuable and respected member in our community and a deeply
beloved husband and father.

Sincerely,

Francis H. Walker Ill

 Case 7:17-cr-00058-KMK Document 45-1 Filed 11/05/18 Page 32 of 115

Frank DeLuccia
Yonkers, New York 10703
Honorable Kenneth M. Karas
United States District Judge
United States Courthouse
300 Quarropas Street
White Plains, NY 10601
September 16, 2018
The Honorable Judge Karas,
I find myself in disbelief that I am writing this letter to you about Richard Brega.
My heart lies heavy and my emotions are so high at what this man has had to go
through over the past couple of years. He is portrayed as a "money hungry monster",
who cares about no one but himself with no regards to others and doesn't care about
the safety of children that are transported on buses daily. Well, nothing can be further
than the truth!! Nothing.!! In the following letter (and I thank you, your Honor for
allowing me the privilege and opportunity to do so) I will try and give you a glimpse of
who Richard Brega truly is.
I met Richie around 1995, and over the course of almost 25 years we have
developed such incredible friendship, bond and closeness that we consider each other
brothers. When we first met I was an owner of a couple of health and fitness centers in
Rockland county. I was young and doing very well for myself. I met Richard as he
would come the gym pretty late generally around closing time. When he worked out
was the time I was able to do my work out, so we would see each other and began
chatting. As the nights and time went by, we spoke more and got to know each other.
Richie had no clue to what he was doing (work out wise), so I began to help him with
his workouts. (I'm a licensed fitness trainer). We grew closer in friendship and began
spending time outside of the gym. I got to learn more and more about him. During that
time, I found out why Richie would come in so late to the gym. He waited to put his
twin boys to bed first. He would always say I'm a husband and a dad first above all
else. Richie was working in his family business, a school bus business in Rockland,
but as much as he loved his job, he was having a hard time making ends meet. He
had been surprised by the birth of twins and due to such a complex pregnancy, his
wife had to take a substantial amount of time off from work, and even though he
worked in a family owned business, he was treated probably worse than regular
employees. He had a ton of responsibility, always on call but paid very little money.
He said that this was their family's cultural beliefs. Struggling was part of early
manhood. This I think is very harsh (his family was well off but wouldn't assist him with
any financial help). Things were so tight Richie had never joined my gym because he
didn't have the money (he would pay daily fees, until we got closer and I stopped that),
and if we went to the diner I knew it was a struggle for him, so I would take care of
tabs (despite his protests).

 Case 7:17-cr-00058-KMK Document 45-1 Filed 11/05/18 Page 33 of 115

Life went on, and Richie had visions and dreams of what path he wanted to take
in the bus business. I would ask him why not ask his family to help him with this, and
again he would say it's not their way, you have to do it on your own. Moving forward I
went onto other ventures and left the gym business, but my bond and closeness with
Richie kept getting stronger, and I thank God it did, and I thank God every day for
Richie. As he embarked on his new vision and dreams of starting his own business,
working day and night, (making sure his family was taken care of), I hit some hard
times. After a routine doctor visit I was told I had RM. They told me that I needed
an operation right away and that next few months of my life would be day to day, due
to the complexity...MS and the need for many treatments after surgery. I was
devastated with this news and went to Richie first before anybody else to tell him. He
was so upset and hugged me for what seemed to be hours as I cried on his shoulder.
He told me "Don't worry, you will beat this, and I will be with you every step of the
way", and he kept true to his word being with me every step of the way.
As busy and having a tough time himself, he put so much time aside and helped me.
He came with me to break the news to my mother and father and helped console
them. My mom cared and loved Richie from the first day she had met him, she thought
he was such a gentleman and a caring person. He consoled her that day and
reassured her that he was going to make sure I would be fine. Richie continued to
stay by my side, he was there the day of the operation, and he drove me home when I
was released. He would take me to treatments and gave me the strength to go on.
I beat...a and I truly believe Richie saved my life with the care and love to
move forward when at times I was giving up because it was too much to handle.
Needless to say, during my battle, I lost my businesses and most of my money.
was now in a rut, not sure what to do next but needing insurance to keep up with
follow up visits. Richie was now very busy with his business venture and growing, but
our bond and friendship always remained the same. Richie told me to go work for him
until I figure out what my next business would be and that at least he would feel more
at ease knowing I would have my insurance benefits. Thank God that I took his great
advice, because over these next couple of years 1 would once again, need Richie by
my side to help me through the emotional roll coaster of my mother getting diagnosed
with brain cancer and my father having a series of heart attacks.
Richie would allow me to leave work and go drive my mother to doctors and
treatments. Many times, he would come with me, and to see my mother's smile when
she would see him was the best thing ever!! My mom knew it was Richie who had
helped me survive what I went through, so now she loved him even more. She would
thank him for all that he had done, and he would say that's not necessary, we are
family and family cares and takes care of one another no matter what. He was there
that afternoon when she passed away, once again, consoling me and letting me know
everything would be ok. A year later ONCE again he was there by my side as they
declared my father had just passed due to complications of his latest heart failure.
After all this, I pretty much had given up on my dreams, and given up on pretty
much everything, but Richie inspired me and pushed me forward to not give up, that
my parents would want me to move forward and he wanted me to live out my dreams.
He guided me with patience and great advice and helped me become once again a

 Case 7:17-cr-00058-KMK Document 45-1 Filed 11/05/18 Page 34 of 115

very successful business man. I'm doing great, with my health, my finances and my
mind and 1 owe it all to my friend who I consider a brother.
I know that he has helped many people throughout the years and would share
these stories only with me because of our closeness but would not want others to find
out because he didn't want the attention for that, he would always tell me, it was just
the right thing to do. I know a few of the people he did things for, one in particular who
was this wonderful girl who had worked for me and was very close friends with his
and didn't have
wife. She had given birth to a baby with
resources to deal with all that comes with that. Richie quietly and without fanfare
helped her in so many ways, and that without him that baby might have had to be
given up for adoption, because she would not have been able to care for him.
Because of Richie, she has her child and loves him more than life itself. I have always
prayed and hoped many blessings for Richie for what he has done, so wonderful and
selfless. He is an amazing dynamic person and unfortunately the prosecution has
painted an evil misrepresentation of who he truly is.
Please, please see through what prosecutors want you to believe, that Richie is
this horrible monster, he truly is NOT. Take a moment to know what a wonderful caring
man he is and that with him in prison how many others will suffer. He adores his kids
and they will be lost without him (he has 5 children). His wife relies on him for
everything because he loves her so much he has taken care of everything for her. All
the people he has helped and has employed, fighting hard every day to make sure
they keep their jobs no matter what happens to him.
Then there is me. I know you don't know me and that I don't have a say in what
kind of sentence he is given. But I would like you to know to lose him is going to be
another tragic event in my life. I can't begin to tell you how much I'm going to miss him,
going to be lost without him around. I truly love him as a brother and I know how much
goodness he has and what great things he does in helping people and being there for
his loved ones. I know with him gone how many people will be affected in a negative
way starting with his wife and kids. I feel so strongly about this and know the man he
is, that if it was allowed I would do the prison time for him, so he could stay out and
continue to do all the wonderful things he does.
Yes Sir, I know what I just stated, but Richie is so needed and helps so many,
I would truly be willing to do the prison time for him.
Can you please take this all into consideration?
Thank you for your time in reading this letter, and may you get the opportunity to
see the true Richard Brega, so we can keep him with us.
With all my heart
Thank you,

Frank DeLuccia

 Case 7:17-cr-00058-KMK Document 45-1 Filed 11/05/18 Page 35 of 115

Francis H. Walker IV
.1111111111111111
Franklin, NJ 07416

10/21/18
Honorable Kenneth M. Karas
United States District Judge
300 Qua rropas Street
White Plains, NY 10601

Dear Honorable Kenneth M. Karas,
I am writing to you today on behalf of my former boss, Richard Brega Jr. I am very saddened to
see that Richard was recently found guilty by a jury of his peers. Richard is a genuine,
charismatic and passionate person who genuinely cares about his employees. Richard, a family
man, turned his passion into his career. Richard believes in people, sometimes more than those
individuals believe in themselves.
I worked for Richard part time during the summer when I was 17. In November 2013, at the age
of 18, he hired me full-time to work alongside his two sons, Richard and Matthew, in the parts
department. I was hired to research and inventory parts for the Tor and TZ buses. Richard gave
me a chance and believed in me-more so than I could say about myself at the time. While I had
automotive knowledge, I was not familiar with class seven and eight vehicles, let alone buses.
Richard always checked in on me to see how I was doing and offered to help in any way
possible. I truly appreciated knowing that Richard used to be a mechanic and used to work on
trucks and buses himself.
Richard always took care of his people. When the Fourth of July came he was in the back of the
facility making hot dogs and cheeseburgers for everyone. When Christmas came he hosted a
huge Christmas party for his employees. There was well over 300 mouths to feed at the time.
We all knew that and sincerely appreciated the thought and effort he put into the holiday
celebrations.
When the legality case with Boces started Richard was unable to assist us anymore. He became
disbarred and we started to lose contracts. When things really started to get tough for us,
Richard's three children had to be let go just so other employees could keep their jobs.
Everyone agrees that nothing has been the same since Richard has left. Working at Brega is
much like being with a big family. Everyone knows each other, is very nice to one another, and
would do anything they could do to help out when needed. I believe we worked so well
together because Richard hired individuals he knew would work well with his current
employees. I pray that everyone ends up safe because we really were a big family at Brega.

 Case 7:17-cr-00058-KMK Document 45-1 Filed 11/05/18 Page 36 of 115

Your Honor, I pray that you can see through the facade that was placed around Richard. There
is no way any children were put in harm's way! There is no way any of the buses were unsafe!
NYS DOT is the main authority on safety and they passed the Boces buses all the time. I pray
that you can see the honorable man Richard is, with a loving wife and children that care about
him immensely. Everyone of us at Brega care about Richard deeply, and not just because he
was our boss, but because he is a good man. We know him. He always took time to talk to us
all. We all just really hope that you can show mercy for our boss and friend, Richard Brega Jr.
Sincerely,

Francis Henry Walker IV

 Case 7:17-cr-00058-KMK Document 45-1 Filed 11/05/18 Page 37 of 115

Glenn Barnard
11111111111.
Valley Cottage, NY 10989
October 19, 2018
Honorable Kenneth M. Karas
United States District Judge
United States Courthouse
300 Quarropas St.
White Plains, NY 10601
Honorable Kenneth M. Karas,
I would lie to introduce myself, my name is Glenn Barnard and I have known Richard Brega
for well over 30 years along with his family. I first started working for Richards grandfather
as a bus driver. Three years ago, Richard gave me an opportunity to better myself and
become a road supervisor. I go out and monitor the buses on their routes and take
customers feedback reports on how well the bus service is running and the public's opinion
of the condition of the bus fleet.
There are many good qualities of Richard that I would like to share with you. He was
brought up working around family and was raised with the value of a good work ethic. He
has instilled in the entire work force to treat each one of our 10,000 bus riders fairly and look
after their needs as if they were part of our own family.
As an employer to over 300 people Richard continued to share those qualities and
maintained a secure and productive work environment. He worked long hours to make sure
his employees were secure, so they could continue to provide for their families. Safety first
was something he always drilled into us. If you see something wrong with a bus, pull it off
the road. Call a tow truck if necessary. Richard on many occasions would hire people in
need of work. Richard would always show his human side first, he would go out of his way
and hire people who were in need. Not because he knew them or their work ethic but
because of the human side of the man who he is and how he cares about people and the
importance to support a family. He always said we will just train them. Everyone who is
given a chance has the ability to learn.
I can only ask the court to consider some leniency on Richard Brega. If there is a lesson
that has to have been learned from all this I assure your Richard has learned it and learned
it the hard way! It is very sad to see this man who has put all his dreams in jeopardy and

 Case 7:17-cr-00058-KMK Document 45-1 Filed 11/05/18 Page 38 of 115

bring such a hard ship to his family and his employees' who he treats as his family and
cares so much about. If you have any questions, please feel free to contact me.
Respectfully Submitted,

Glenn Barnard

 Case 7:17-cr-00058-KMK Document 45-1 Filed 11/05/18 Page 39 of 115

Haylee Shanahan
Seminole Florida 33776
September 27, 2018
Honorable Kenneth M. Karas
United States District Judge
United States Courthouse
300 Qua rropas Street
White Plains, NY 10601
Dear Honorable Kenneth M. Karas ,
My name is Haylee Shanahan and I am eighteen years old from Valley
Cottage, New York. I recently graduated from Nyack High School in January of
2018. I moved to Seminole, Florida this past August and I am a student at
St.Petersburg College where I am taking online courses for the first semester. I
am writing this letter in regards to Richard Brega. 1 have known Richard Brega
since I was born. I can't put it into words about how much he has impacted not
only my life but my whole family. My mother was a nurse at Nyack Hospital from
1983 to 1995. She then became a stay at home mom until 2004 when she got
divorced. Watching my mom go through a divorce and having no one to support
her trying to raise four kids was the most devastating thing to watch. For her
being a stay at home mom was no longer an option. Richard Brega hired my mom
shortly after that with no experience, and helped our family.
Growing up I never really had a father figure in my life. My father battled
addiction and didn't provide me the best role model. He passed away in June of
2011. Richard Brega was always there for my siblings and I. I say that because he
has always helped my mom whenever she needed it with us. Whenever
something goes wrong and I get scared I call Richard. He is so calm. He just talks
you through whatever is happening. The last time was when the police came to
our house in the middle of the night when we lived in Valley Cottage because my

 Case 7:17-cr-00058-KMK Document 45-1 Filed 11/05/18 Page 40 of 115

brother got into a fight. He has always been there for my mom, by listening to
her talk about children, marriage and about life in general. He has always given
her the best advice. If it wasn't for him, my family wouldn't have gotten through
the hard times. Over the years and as I was growing up, I have realized a lot
about his character. He has always put everyone's needs before himself, and
always made sure everyone was okay. He has always given everyone an
opportunity, and believed the best in that individual. With Richard's friendship
and caring nature, he has played an important role in my life and I thank him for
that. To me, having Richard Brega in my life is a blessing.
Please upon reading this letter, please take all of this into consideration
regarding Richard Brega and his goodness to not only my family and I but also to
others.

Sincerely,
Hayleb Shanahan

 Case 7:17-cr-00058-KMK Document 45-1 Filed 11/05/18 Page 41 of 115

SCHLOSS & SCHLOSS, PLLC
ATTORNEYS AT LAW
MEM
AIRMONT NEW YORK 10952
FAX
JACK SCHLOSS
JONATHAN B. SCHLOSS*
*Admitted NY & NJ
KERIANN MARSHALL, Paralegal

October 12, 2018
Chambers of the Hon. Kenneth M. Karas
United States District Court
United States Courthouse
300 Quarropas Street, Chambers 533
White Plains, NY 10601-4150
Re: Richard Brega A Plea for Leniency
Dear Judge Karas:
I was admitted to the New York State Bar in December of 1976 and was admitted to the Federal
Bar in the Southern and Eastern Districts of New York in January of 1977. I have received
annual appointments to serve as a Court Examiner in the Second Judicial Department each year
since 2007. For more than forty years, I've represented many public and private sector employers
as a professional negotiator and administrator of labor agreements.
In June of 2013, Richard Brega contacted me regarding his company's need for labor counsel
advice. Richard told me that, Brega Transport Corp., had successfully bid on a major bus service
contract with the County of Rockland and he asked if I would meet with him at his company's
facility to discuss his company's need for the services of experienced labor counsel. I agreed to
meet with him and key members of his staff. We met at the beautiful and employee-friendly
facility Richard had created. As I walked through the facility, I sensed a positive energy.
Employee bathrooms, lunch rooms, training rooms and offices were designed with obvious care
and planning. Employees were busy and smiling. We had a lengthy meeting during which
Richard shared his family history and many of his plans for the future of his company and its
employees. I sensed a genuine desire on Richard's part to grow his company in a way that would
positively contribute to the entire Rockland community by creating job opportunities, improving
the County's transportation infrastructure and in the proud tradition of his family, by servicing as
many community needs as possible. I was most impressed with Richard's energy, creativity,
plans and achievements. When Richard asked me to serve as his company's labor counsel, I
readily agreed.
From June of 2013 through January 21, 2015 I was in regular weekly (and sometimes daily)
contact with Richard as we worked to successfully negotiate a fair and equitable first-time
collective bargaining agreement between Brega Transport Corp. and the Sheet Metal Air and
Transport Union (SMART); the union elected to represent all of the drivers employed by Brega

 Case 7:17-cr-00058-KMK Document 45-1 Filed 11/05/18 Page 42 of 115
Richard Brega
Page 2— 10/12/18
Transport Corp. needed to properly operate Rockland County's bus transportation system. It was
during this period of intense cooperation that I got to know of Richard's dedication to his
employees and of his extraordinary amount of charitable work and generosity.
Richard's charitable work for organizations providing services for severely disabled individuals
has been so well recognized that the Rockland County Legislature issued a formal
"Proclamation" (copy attached) which reads in part as follows:
This Legislature wishes to recognize and honor the spirit of community service
and commitment to improving the quality of life of our residents, which Richard
Brega demonstrates through his countless hours devoted to a myriad of civic and
Community organizations including but not limited to Camp Venture, Jawanio,
Rockland Independent Living Center and ARC of Rockland.
I know of my own personal knowledge that the list of charities cited by the County Legislature as
benefitting from Richard's work is not exclusive. For example, I know that Richard contributed a
substantial amount of time and money to a County-wide charity known as "People to People". I
am enclosing a copy November 18, 2015 "Press Release" issued by Richard's company which
demonstrates how Richard's company organized a community-wide food drive for the benefit of
needy Rockland residents. I know that Richard was also responsible for financing Christmas
parties and other social events for all of his company employees. It would be hard to find a more
charitable individual.
The "Proclamation" signed by the Chairman of the Rockland County Legislature on behalf of the
entire Legislature also stated that:
Richard Brega is a successful businessman with a reputation for excellence and
integrity.., whose businesses have contributed to the growth and well-being of
our County.
I could not agree more. I verily believe that the unfortunate conduct which has brought Richard
before you is an aberrational blemish on an otherwise distinguished career filled with
extraordinary success and generosity. Richard has often used his considerable skill and talents for
the benefit of the entire Rockland community. I know he can and will do it again. Richard
deserves a second chance, I have no doubt that Richard will in the future conduct himself in a
fashion that will rebuild his good name, be a credit to his dear wife, a source pride to his five
loving children, and be an asset to the entire Rockland community.
For these reasons I urge that your Honor exercise the absolute maximum amount of allowable
leniency in sentencing this good man.
Respectfully submitted for your consideration.
Thank you,

k Sch oss, s .
:km
Enc.

 Case 7:17-cr-00058-KMK Document 45-1 Filed 11/05/18 Page 43 of 115

nt
Statt of Atm tor

cç

RICHARD BREGA JR. DAY
May 3, 2014
WHEREAS, as the representative body of Rockland County, it is fitting that this Legislature recognize
individuals who make significant contributior7 toward the improvement of the quality of life that our
I residents appreciate; and
WHEREAS, a graduate of Nyack High School and St. Thomas Aquinas College, Rockland County
I native, Richard Brega is a successful businessman with a reputation for excellence and integrity; and
WHEREAS, in 1997 Richard Brega started a fleet maintenance repair shop, Brega D.O.T. Maintenance

I
I Corp., which has become a premier repair shop in Rockland County; and

WHEREAS, in 2002, Richard Brega established Brega Transport Corp., a full service public transporI tation
company, which is now one of the largest county-owned employers in Rockland; and
WHEREAS, his commitment to providing prompt efficient service and his outstanding work ethic,
has made Richard Brega a most successful businessman, whose businesses have contributed to the
growth and financial well-being of our County and
WHEREAS, even more importantly, this Legislature wishes to recognize and honor the spirit of corn! munity service and commitment to improving the quality of life for our residents, which Richard Brega
I demonstrates through his countless hours devoted to a myriad of civic and community organizations,
including but not limited Camp Venture, Jawonio, Rockland Independent Living Center and ARC of •
Rockland; and
NOW THEREFORE, I, Alden H. Wolfe, Chairman of the Rockland County Legislature, on behalf of the
I entire Legislature, take this occasion to extend its gratitude and appreciation to Richard Brega, Jr. as
I he is honored this evening by the Rockland County Republican Committee as its Business Leader of
the Year and proclaim May 3, 2014, RICHARD BREGA, JR. DAY in Rockland County.
•

RENCE O.
erk to the L

E

IN WITNESS WHEREOF,1 have caused
the seal of the County of Rockland to be
affixed this 3rd day of May 2014.

HON. ALDEN H. WOLFE
Chairman of the Legislature

Introduced by: Hon. Christopher J. Carey, Hon. Frank Sparaco, Hon. Douglas J. Jobson,
Hon. Patrick J. Moroney, Hon. John A. Murphy, Hon. Ilan S. Schoenberger

 Case 7:17-cr-00058-KMK Document 45-1 Filed 11/05/18 Page 44 of 115

TRANSPORT CORP .
11111111111111111111Valley Cottage, NY 10989
Te1:111111111111111 Fax:MEM

PRESS RELEASE
(11/18/15)

CONTACT:

Vincent 0 Marzella
1
11111111111111111111111111(Phone)
111111111111111111(Fax)

Brega Transport Corp. has announced that it will be hosting a food drive to support the local nonprofit People to People located in Nanuet, NY. With over 350 employees, Brega
Transport Corp. expects to provide over one thousand pounds of food to the food pantry along with a
sizeable monetary contribution.
Brega Transport is not working alone to provide the much needed support to People to People. Many
of Brega's business partners have stepped up and made either food donations or monetary
contributions. These donations will be presented to the Board of Directors at People to People. Some
of the partners participating include (Partners In Safety, Vista Electric, AutoPro LLC, Goosetown
Communications, Rockland Auto Repair, Sonoma Grill Restaurant and Bar, Compufit, The Ducey
Agency Inc. Schloss and Schloss Attorneys at Law).
Another major contributor to the food drive is SMART UTU Local 1705. Local 1705 represents the
transit drivers employed by Brega Transport Corp. The Union General Chairperson Tommy Bruce
stated, "When the company approached us about the idea of the food drive the only question we had
was, 'How can we help?' The services we provide to the County are community driven and it is our
pleasure to help support the company with this great cause".

 Case 7:17-cr-00058-KMK Document 45-1 Filed 11/05/18 Page 45 of 115

The plan is to fill up Brega Transport buses with the food collected, and deliver the donations to
People to People on Monday, November 23- at 11AM. At such time monetary donations will also be
presented to the Board of Directors.
Brega Transport's Chief Operations Officer Vincent Marzella said, "As a growing member of the
Rockland County business community we have the privilege to work with some great local
businesses here in Rockland. This presents us with a great opportunity to pool resources together and
contribute to a great cause".

 Case 7:17-cr-00058-KMK Document 45-1 Filed 11/05/18 Page 46 of 115

James Boyle

July 22, 2018

Congers, NY 10920
Honorable Kenneth M. Karas
United States District Judge
United States Courthouse
300 Qua rropas Street
White Plains, NY 10601
Dear Judge, Karas:
I would like to start by saying I am writing this letter knowing that Richard Brega has been found guilty,
and after thinking about all that has happened I don't envy your position you're Honor.
I moved to Rockland County in 2000 with my wife and raised two children who are now finishing college.
While working for my wife's family in their construction business I met Richard and in 2007 actually built
the facility that Richard 's company resides in. My children are very actively involved in the after-school
youth rowing program, Rockland Rowing and for 8yrs helped young adults learn teamwork and respect
for themselves and others. The club was struggling, and Richard provided free busing for there after
school program and a location to store their equipment and trailers for the winter. Richard said they
could store boats here, and also repaired and repainted some of them all at no charge.
In 2012 with the construction business struggling Richard offered me a job unrelated to anything I had
ever done. He had a contract to provide busing for special needs children and wanted to know if I would
like a job helping lead a team of over 150 people. I knew nothing about the busing industry, but Richard
believed in me, gave me a chance and with his help he told me we could do it. Over the course of the
next five years we transported over 500 special needs children to programs every day without incidence.
I do feel compelled to share how Richard has helped so many people including myself over the years I've
known him, and some specific instances come to mind of things Richard did to help others that most
people probably wouldn't even consider.
When one of the schools called for an emergency evacuation gas leak to remove all the kids from the
program, it was Richard who told us to grab anybody that hade a license to drive a bus and take any of
his mechanics and go to the school all for no charge.
When a teacher at one of the schools was in a car accident and was in a wheelchair with 2 broken legs,
Richard sent me to help her by building a ramp for wheelchair access, so she can get in and out of her
house. Richard paid for all the materials and labor.
When I told him that one of our very sick children had passed away in our program he sent me to her
memorial ceremony with a check to help pay for the funeral arrangements.
At Thanksgiving we would have a food drive and try to fill a van. Richard told me to go and buy more
food because he felt it wasn't enough.
Lastly by giving me a job, helping me and believing in me he allowed me the opportunity to send my
children to college for an education that I myself was not able to do. My son has now graduated Drexel
with a bachelor's degree in Graphics and my daughter is in her third year at Pace Manhattan.
I have never met person that has pledged himself more to helping others without any benefit to
themselves.
I am comfortable to call him my friend and to stand up for him in his time of need.
I would like to thank you for your time and consideration -his sentencing.
Respectfully
James Boyle

 Case 7:17-cr-00058-KMK Document 45-1 Filed 11/05/18 Page 47 of 115

October 9, 2018

Honorable Kenneth M. Karas
United States District Judge
United States Courthouse
300 Quarropas Street
White Plains, NY 10601

Dear Judge Karas,

I am writing on behalf of Richard Brega to request leniency in regards to his sentencing. I am aware that
Richard was found guilty on the charges brought against him and respectfully request that you consider
a few of his personal characteristics while contemplating over his sentencing.
I have known Richard Brega since 2007. I know him to be a quiet man that gives of himself generously
to the community. I consider him to be a kind and caring neighbor that was especially considerate when
I lost my wife and my children lost their mother. Being the sole provider of my own family, I can attest
to the strain this burden inflicts. I feel compelled to speak out on behalf of Richard due to how
graciously he reached out to look after my own family during difficult times. Richard and his family
assisted with rides to and from after school activities, as well allowing my children to stay at their home
when I often was scheduled to work evening shifts.
I am aware that it is your duty to uphold the law. I only ask that you consider Richard's family when
deciphering over his sentencing. Richard is the essential provider of his loving wife; Lucinda and his five
children; Matthew; Richard; Kate111111; and...1 I realize that Richard must make amends for his
crime but hope that you will consider the ways in which his sentencing may affect his wife and children
as they rely on him financially and emotionally.
Thank you for your time and I sincerely hope you will take into consideration my words while
contemplating Mr. Brega's sentencing.

 Case 7:17-cr-00058-KMK Document 45-1 Filed 11/05/18 Page 48 of 115

James F. Nugent
Valley Cottage, NY 10989
October 16, 2018
Honorable Kenneth M. Karas
United States District Judge
United States Courthouse
300 Qua rropas Street
White Plains, New York 10601
Dear Judge, Karas:
I, James Nugent, am writing to you on behalf of Richard Brega, who will appear before you for
sentencing in the near future. I wish to request as a personal friend and business associate,
leniency in sentencing, as he has not previously engaged in criminal activity, and he is a family
man.
I am in the landscape business. My brothers and I have been a customer of Richard Brega since
2000. His company Brega DOT Maintenance services and repairs all our trucks. We have been
very happy with the services we have relieved over the past 18 years.
Being a small business, many times cash flow becomes difficult. Neither Rich or his staff has
ever demanded payment from us. Never have they sent us to collections. They repair our
trucks and they mail us an invoice. We make payments without interest charges as our
cashflow permits. Richard Brega is a really good man and has helped so many small
businessmen and women.
Thank you for your time and consideration of my letter.
Sincerely,

James F. Nugent

 Case 7:17-cr-00058-KMK Document 45-1 Filed 11/05/18 Page 49 of 115

James Koutros
Haverstraw, N.Y. 10927

October 16, 2018
Honorable Kenneth M. Karas
United States District Judge
United States Courthouse
300 Quarropas Street
White Plains, New York 10601
Dear Judge, Karas:
I am writing you this letter for a person that has the following characteristics:
• INTERGRETY
• TRUE TO HIS WORD
• HARD WORKER
• GENEROSITY
• FAMILY MAN
• HUMBLE
This person is Richard Brega, I have been fortunate to meet Richard through his
brother Jason while they were working together at Brega Transport. When
Richard resigned from his empire on February 3, 2017 he asked me to join the
Board of Directors. He only had one request of all of us as he left. He reminded
us believing in people and helping them will always come back to us in a positive
way. To please continue to work on people's vehicles and worry about them
paying for it at a later date. Safety first! Make sure the vehicles are safe and can
pass inspection. Sooner or later the customer will pay. That's how he started
the business in 1997 with his first customer and that's the way he wants it to
continue. He did not ask for a severance package or anything else. Just for all
of us to keep the good and proud traditions of safety first and money as a
secondary issue.
Richard has always made time and financial contributions to many events,
fundraisers and anyone in need. I understand that Richard Brega stands in your
courtroom with a list of charges that a jury have convicted him with. The purpose
of this letter is not to defend, appose or challenge their decision but to simply ask
for a punishment that would allow him to support and take care of his family. He
is a true family man with an extended family that he supports and keeps intact.

 Case 7:17-cr-00058-KMK Document 45-1 Filed 11/05/18 Page 50 of 115

Unfortunately, his reputation is tarnished from this course of events and hopefully
your decision will be favorable for Richard Brega where he can rebuild and put
back the pieces of his life for himself and the family. I know this is a small
snapshot of Richard Brega, but I feel he can do "more good" if he is in the
community rather than behind bars. I thank you in advance for reading this letter
and fully respect your decision.
Sincerely

James Koutros

 Case 7:17-cr-00058-KMK Document 45-1 Filed 11/05/18 Page 51 of 115

Jason Brega
Tomkins Cove NY 10986

August 24, 2018
Honorable Kenneth M. Karas
United States District Judge
United States Court House
300 Qua rropas St.
White Plains, NY 10601
Honorable Kenneth M. Karas
My name is Jason Brega, the brother of Richard Brega Jr. I am the now one of the
owners of Brega Transport Corp. and the President of Brega D.O.T. Maintenance
Corp. President of Brega Commercial Collision Corp. President of Brega
Enterprises. President of RIB Properties LLC. I have known Richard Brega Jr for
46 years.
I am aware of the events surrounding Richards Conviction. When Richard was
arrested he voluntarily stepped down from his title as President of all companies,
to save all 300 employee jobs and guarantee the 500 special needs children and
the 10,000 commuters we transport each day were not inconvenienced or put in
jeopardy. Richard has suffered greatly because of this. Richard is the type of man
and who's mind never stops. He is so creative in everything he does because of
his passion to give everyone around him a chance to make something of
themselves and make the world a better place.
Richard learned his passion from our Grand Father. He then created an empire.
Richard took all of my Grand Fathers dreams and made them come true. He did
this to create jobs for all our family members who wanted to learn the business.
He gave all his friends jobs who were in need of jobs. Some people that had jobs
but left to join Richard's team, because of the vision he has. He gave people jobs
who were down on their luck and had no where to turn, no experience, people
who just wanted to quite on life. He taught them, guided them, and paid them a

 Case 7:17-cr-00058-KMK Document 45-1 Filed 11/05/18 Page 52 of 115

top rate wage with benefits. Richard is like a magnet. Once you spend time with
him watching and listening to his passion you can't help but want to be part of it.
He wanted to give everyone a chance to make something of themselves.
Richard and his wife have never taken a pay check or any kind of payment from
any of the companies since he got into trouble. He fired his children to make sure
the other 300 employees that had families would be able to keep their jobs.
Myself and my partner bought Brega Transport Corp. from Richard. We could not
afford such a big company, nor did we have the cash flow to keep it going. So,
Richard destroyed himself financially and sold it to us for 200 thousand dollars. I
was apart of the meeting with the accounts, the financial planers, and the
attorneys. They all told him not to sell. Especially for close to nothing! He was
advised to put everything in a trust for his wife and children. This way he could
keep all his money and the government could do nothing about it. His response
was that a "trust can not run a bus company and there was no way the ridding
public was going to suffer because of my actions".
This is a company that was grossing around 18 million of dollars a year. He didn't
even get the money for the Sale of the company. It was structured that the bank
would get the money to pay down the dept that Richard and his wife have with
the bank.
Richard has been my big brother, my role model, my mentor and most of all my
best friend. There are rare people in this world who are so caring, whose natural
instinct is to put someone else's needs ahead of their own; who offer
encouragement when it is needed; who are always there to listen; who never
want or expect praise for their good deeds because that's just the way they are.
Richard is one of those rare people. I am truly fortunate to have him as my
brother.
Richard is 5 years older than me. He has always looked out for me and my best
interest. He has made me man I am today. In June of 2001. I was 29 years old
and Richard gave me a job at Brega Transport Corp. I was in put charge of the
new startup of his bus company. I had very little experience in this industry
because I was away from the family business for 7 years. That did not worry him
in the least. Richard has a vision and can take someone from nothing and teach
them the world if they are willing to learn. That is what he did with me. I got
married in the 2010 to my wife Angela. Richard was my best man. Angela and I

 Case 7:17-cr-00058-KMK Document 45-1 Filed 11/05/18 Page 53 of 115

. We had to go toll=
We were not able to afford to go to the best. For 3 years we went to
where we were able to afford. This is very costly, and insurance does not cover
much at all. After 3 years of
Richard said to me you should go to the
best1111111111111111111 I told him we could not afford it. He said he would help
me, and he did, not just with money but time off from work when ever we need
to go into New York City.
He always had someone cover my shift and kept things a secret. Because...
. After
and
During this process Richard gave me so much metal support encouragement and
told me not to give up, this is your dream to
you need to have a
positive attitude. Because of my brother my wife and I have a beautiful health
daughter that is the love of our life.
My brother is always there for support, guidance and encouragement for me.
Without him around to speak to, too guide me, encourage me how will I ever be
able to keep these companies going? Keep all these employees employed? How
will I be able to make sure the 10,000 commuters we transport daily get to and
from work without delay? I am falling into a depression and extremely stressed.
Because of this it is hurting all the businesses.
When Richard stands before you, I ask of you that you not just to see him. Please
look at myself, his children, his wife, and all 300 of our employees, as well as all
the people Richard has either transported or helped in his life.

Jason Brega

 Case 7:17-cr-00058-KMK Document 45-1 Filed 11/05/18 Page 54 of 115

Jason Kehoe
Wilmington, NC 28412
October 17, 2018
Hon. Kenneth M. Karas
United States District Judge
United States Courthouse
300 Quarropas Street
White Plains, NY 10601
Dear Judge, Karas
I am writing to urge leniency in the sentencing of a lifelong friend Richard Brega. Despite the
transgressions that have gotten him to this point, Richard is a good person.
My name is Jason Kehoe, I have known Richard Brega for most of my life. I have been friends with
his brother Jason since I was about 6 years old. So roughly 40 years. Although I don't fully understand
the gravity of what he has done, I'd Like to share with you the person that I have known for about four
decades.
As the oldest of my friend Jason's three brothers, Richard was someone that I looked up to. He was
a stabilizing force for me along with his family, having some issues in my own family life. Richard was
not just my best friends' brother, but someone who I considered a friend as well. He has been there for
me when I needed help as a young boy as well as in my current adult life when I needed some help
with a new work vehicle a few years back. My wife and I had fallen on hard times and struggled with
our bills as many couples do being self- employed. I am in construction, framing is my trade. I had a
work truck that finally gave out and I was at a loss and stressed. Our credit was bad, and we were
concerned how I would get another truck to ensure I could continue to work to feed our family.
Richard was the one who came through for us, he had a small bus that he would give me for free if I
was interested in taking it on. I did. Also, he helped me with any work that need to be done on bus
through the years while I am running my business in New York. Richard always told me not to worry
about paying for the repairs. Just send me what you can when you can. He did that interest free!
Without that help from Richard I don't know what we would have done.
Your Honor, I still have that bus today. It is helping us with our contracting business in our new
state of North Carolina.
Thank you, your Honor for your time. I do hope you consider leniency for Richard Brega.
Sincerely,

so Kehoe

 Case 7:17-cr-00058-KMK Document 45-1 Filed 11/05/18 Page 55 of 115

Jeffrey Gibs
Nanuet, New York 10954
Oct 9, 2018

Honorable Kenneth M. Karas
United States District Judge
United States Courthouse
300 Quarropas Street
White Plains, NY 10601
Dear Judge Karas,
A little background about myself, I grew up and live in Rockland County most of my life. I have
worked in the financial industry for major corporations in the past but, now work for a family
business in Pearl River. I look to give back to my community as I sit on the board of directors for
both the Greater Nanuet Chamber of Commerce and the Pearl River Chamber of Commerce.
I have known Richard Brega since we were small children, almost 50 years ago. Our families
would get together for swimming, boating, barbeques and trips to Rockefeller Center at
Christmas time, to name a few.
Richard has always shown to be a hard-working, honest, respectable and caring person.
Whether it was physically hammering nails to help build his parent's home, selling metal storage
boxes or to begin one of his businesses, he was always determined to do a great job.
When Richard was getting ready to open the Brega DOT facility, he proudly gave me a tour. It
was beautiful, just like I would expect from his standards. The bathrooms and waiting room had
beautiful tile and decor like an office building not, a bus facility. He also created an eating area
with vending machines and a huge room for employee training. Richard explained, he wanted to
make it a beautiful place for his workers, as bus drivers were not use to working in a beautiful
places. As he explained further, he could have saved a lot of money and kept it simple but, he
wanted happy and proud workers and that was more important than saving money. That is the
good person he has always been.
Richard Brega is one of the good ones! I ask and hope you consider this when making your
decision.

Respectfully,

 Case 7:17-cr-00058-KMK Document 45-1 Filed 11/05/18 Page 56 of 115

Jennifer Bricker
1111111.1111111
Pomona, NY 10970
Oct 14, 2018
Honorable Kenneth M. Karas
United States District Judge
United States Courthouse
300 Qua rropas St.
White Plains, NY 10601
Honorable Kenneth M. Karas,
I am writing to you on behalf of Richard Brega. I am aware that Mr. Brega has been found guilty of the
charges that were brought against him. I am writing to you to tell you a little bit about the man I know
Richard Brega to be.
I would like to introduce myself. My name is Jennifer Bricker and I have lived in Pomona, NY for the last
16 years. I am an Interior Decorator and have been in business for myself in Rockland County for the
last 12 or so years. Prior to that we lived in Europe. My husband works for a mutual fund company
called Alliance Bernstein. I sacrificed my career to further his in the year 2000. I am also the mother of
4 wonderful children ranging in age from 16 to 8 years old. I do a ton of volunteering for their schools
and sports activities.
I met Mr. Richard Brega in 2006-7 when he was building the Brega Building. I have always known
Richard to be a caring, generous person. He was always so courteous and polite and over time we
discovered how many people we both knew. He had an amazing vision for his business and I was so
impressed by the thought that had been put into the plan. Over time I learned how long he had been
working, learning and planning since he was a young man. He spoke of his father and the work ethic he
had been taught. His family was a big part of his everyday life and they would stop in to see him and the
progress of the project. You could tell that they were proud of him, proud of his dream coming to
fruition.
Rich knew my father from a long time ago. When the building had opened he invited my father down to
tour it with him. He took time out of his day to explain the different areas he was able to service. He sat
with my father and spoke of the enjoyable days he had working with their friend Gary Zeh. When Gary
passed away he reached out to his daughter to offer his assistance in any way she needed. She was
alone and didn't have a knowledge of the bus business. He was willing to give her advice, explain the
business, and answer any questions she may have had. He was always willing to help others.
Rich was friendly and personable to his staff of over 300. He listened and interacted with them in a
comfortable manner. They respected him, and you could tell that he had a staff who cared about the
business too. He knew each of them on a first name basis. He may have been super busy, but he always
had a friendly word for them or a minute to listen to an issue they may have been dealing with. I was
asked to decorate the building for the holidays and help plan the annual holiday luncheon for them. It
was a day they looked forward to. The spirit of the holidays was there, and the staff members were so
grateful.

 Case 7:17-cr-00058-KMK Document 45-1 Filed 11/05/18 Page 57 of 115

I met Lucinda and his children throughout the years of working with him. They are lovely and friendly
and so proud of the hardworking man so important in their lives. He always made time for them. We
talked about the importance of balance in our lives. He was always able to find the time for both. Horse
shows, basketball, cheer and school events..., his schedule was planned with these in mind. It was
refreshing to see, and you could tell he loves his family.

I am hoping that you will take into account what I have told you that I know about Richard Brega when
you make your decision in sentencing. Richard really is a very decent person. I am proud to know him.
Thank you for taking the time to read my letter.

Sincerely,

it
ennifer Bricker

 Case 7:17-cr-00058-KMK Document 45-1 Filed 11/05/18 Page 58 of 115

October 25, 2018
Jennifer Sernotti
111.111111111111111111
Congers, NY 10920
The Honorable Kenneth M. Karas
United States District Judge
United States Court House
300 Quarropas Street
White Plains, NY 10601
Dear Judge Karas,
My name is Jennifer Sernotti, and I would like to submit this letter of consideration for your review.
We all make choices and are responsible for their consequences, both right and wrong. It is common knowledge
that Richard Brega made several decisions that were quite wrong thus leading to his guilty verdict. With that said, I
would like to make you aware of some of his better choices that helped improve the lives of those most vulnerable
in our community.
I was employed for fifteen years at Camp Venture. This not-for profit organization that provides residential
housing and programs to the developmentally disabled of Rockland County. I served as a special events
coordinator and fund raiser in the Venture Foundation. There is nothing new about requesting and receiving
Corporate Sponsorships for campaigns and event support. What I did learn over the years was the special way in
which Mr. Brega donated. What set him apart from many of our other donors was the fact that he truly cared
about the welfare of our consumers. A check just didn't arrive in the mail, his heartfelt intentions did also. For
example, a charity event was offered by the Rockland Boulders Baseball team. Mr. Brega not only offered
sponsorship support, he also paid for every residential consumer to attend. He chose to be part of the day, and a
part of their lives. As lead sponsor he was awarded a private suite to watch the game with his family. He invited
members of our staff, the direct care givers that shepherd our consumers throughout the day to join his family and
employees. He even paid for all refreshments to make the day complete. This is above and beyond the normal
generosity that we receive.
When funding was tight, Mr. Brega stepped up and purchased all new uniforms for our various Special Olympic
Teams. The team was more excited that he attended games and always cheered. His philanthropy was not done
with great fanfare, but quietly. His natural choice was to share, and he did so generously with many people and
organizations in our community.
On a personal note, I decide to help Special Olympics by participating in the Polar Plunge, held last November. In
my campaign to friends and family, I requested $50.00. I had made a personal pledge to raise $1,000.00. As a
friend I asked Rich, who promptly donated $500, intending that the games continue as always for the iprticipants.
His name wasn't listed in a journal or announced, it was a donation from the heart.
Please keep these better attributes in mind during your sentencing process.
Thank you for your time and consideration.
Sincerel

nifer ernotti

 Case 7:17-cr-00058-KMK Document 45-1 Filed 11/05/18 Page 59 of 115

October 8, 2018

Honorable Kenneth M. Karas
United States District Court Judge
United States Courthouse
300 Qua rropas Street
White Plains, NY 10601

Dear Judge Karas:
I am writing to you on behalf of Richard Brega. I am aware that he has been found guilty of the charges that
were brought against him. I am writing to you to tell you what I know about this man and his family qualities.
I first met Rich Brega over 5 years ago at the barn in West Nyack where our children ride horses together. Rich
helps out the children at the barn if they need to move heavy items and tack up the horses when he is there or
at shows. At the horse shows, he and I set-up a large tent, chairs and tables for the children and parents to use
all day at the event. Rich also brings food and drinks for everyone to share when we are there. It is great to
have a friend and parent there to help the children and participate in the show. He also volunteers with me at
the shows to set up trail courses and move heavy items for the show to take place. He is always willing to lend
a helping hand. A couple years ago, I experienced a problem with my horse trailer on a long trip to Syracuse
for the children to compete at NY State Fair. Rich was there willing and able to help me out so that we could
safely get back home with the children and horses. Rich had my back for this problem, and 1 really appreciate
him for worrying about everyone and doing whatever he could to help out in fixing the trailer.
My wife and I are both members of the Piermont Fire Department for many years. I am in over 40 years and
an ex-Chief, and my wife is in for over 18 years and is the current EMS Lieutenant. Rich is always willing to give
his time back to community with helping out at community events and using his resources to help out
community volunteers. He continually helps whenever he can and gives people the support they need in these
organizations.
Lastly, our daughter is adopted from China and she struggles with friends, going to school and is in therapy.
She seems to gravitate to Rich whenever we are all together for dinner, at the barn or at a horse show. He
really takes the time to listen to her, talk to her and guide her. She always asks when she will see Rich again as
he is the voice of reason to her.
lam hoping that you will take into account all of these good things Rich has done for myself and other people
when making your decision in sentencing. Rich is really a very decent person and our daughter gets motivated
talking to him and he helps her to move forward in many ways. If you ever have a chance to have a genuine
conversation with Rich, you would see what I am talking about. I would like to thank you for taking the time to
read my letter.
Sincerely,

Jim Alise
Piermont, NY 10968

 Case 7:17-cr-00058-KMK Document 45-1 Filed 11/05/18 Page 60 of 115

John Nunes
1111.111111111111111
Valley Cottage, NY 10989
October 16, 2018
Honorable Kenneth M. Karas
Unites States District Judge
United States Courthouse
300 Quarropas St.
White Plains, NY 10601
To The Honorable Judge Kenneth M. Karas,
Please understand that I know that justice must be served and I believe that the Court is the
personification of our collective moral and legal code. I am writing you today to urge leniency in the
sentencing of my friend Richard Brega, Jr.
I have been friends with Richard for over 30 years. In the many years I have known Richard, he has
always proven to be of fine and responsible character. He is a devoted husband and father of 5
wonderful children. I know him to be a kind, caring, and good man who is distressed by his current
circumstances.
I can say in all the time I have known Richard, he had always been a decent, hardworking and
trustworthy person. Richard is always more than willing to help anyone in need and is a good man
at heart.1111.11111 and when I confided in Richard in the mid 1990's, he was more supportive
of me than my1=M1111111M. He always told me to be proud of1111111.1111111111111=

IM=IN

0

Richard gave me my first job back when I was in high school. I started out sweeping buses after
school. After attending University of Hartford, once again Richard game me a chance to show the
world what I can do. I started my own computer repair IT business. I eventually partnered with
another company, Compufit LLC. and rose quickly through the firm's management and leadership
teams. I am now an equity Partner in our firm. We have grown into one of Westchester County's
most elite and advanced Information Technology companies in the industry.
I know the purpose of the criminal justice system is not only to punish, but also to rehabilitate.
Richard is not a career criminal and I cannot imagine him acting with malice towards anyone. It is
my hope that the Court order the parole of Richard and focus on his rehabilitation, and not only the
punishment.
I thank this Court for its time in considering my request.

Sincerely,

ohn Nunes

 Case 7:17-cr-00058-KMK Document 45-1 Filed 11/05/18 Page 61 of 115

Jonathan Dursi
Pomona, NY 10970
October 14, 2018
Honorable
Kenneth M. Karas
United States District Judge
United States Court House
300 Quarropas St. White Plains, NY 10601
Dear Judge, Karas,

I have known Richard Brega for most of my life. As well as employing me at his company for
about 4 years, he and my father have been very good friends the majority of their lives and has
become family to me. He and his family have been to both mine and my brothers bar mitzvahs
as well as had us as guest for many different holidays over the years. One holiday that comes
straight to mind is Thanksgiving. Every year we are with my father, he would invite us all to
spend the holiday with him and his family, eating and watching the football games. I also recall
at my brother's bar mitzvah, I really did not want to wear my suit and he was the only one who
could convince me to not change out of it by explaining just how we needed to take pride in our
appearance, especially on days as important as this. Richard always showed such a kindness and
wisdom that helped me learn a lot in my life so far.
Richard has helped me develop a strong work ethic and gave me opportunities most people did
not have at my age. When he first took me on I counted tickets for the TOR busses and that was
the first job I ever had. After doing that for some time he saw potential in me that I didn't even
know anyone was looking for and moved me to working in the parts room for the repair shop.
Despite my age and lack of experience, I was treated just as any of his other employees would be
and had the responsibilities that came with it. I helped order parts, manage inventory and much
more. At just 16 years old he had given me more valuable work experience than I realized at the
time. What started out as helping on Saturdays had become a part time job throughout my high
school and part of my college careers. Richard always pushed me to learn more and keep getting
better at what I already knew. After some time in the parts room Richard saw I had even more
potential and brought me to meet the accountant who I would start working with. I started
working with the accountant and because Richard saw that potential in my learned so many skills
that not only work with a business but managing money in general. The recognition and kindness

 Case 7:17-cr-00058-KMK Document 45-1 Filed 11/05/18 Page 62 of 115

I received from Richard allowed me the opportunity to not only purchase my first vehicle, but
also pay it off completely nearly two years earlier than originally scheduled. During all this time,
Richard never stopped coming by and seeing how I was doing and offer words of how well I was
doing. Even when I started college full time and my schedule was even fuller Richard always
made sure that if I was available there would be work for me to do.

Not only did Richard push me to do the best I could at work, but in school as well. School
always came first, and he would always ask how I was doing in it and made sure my grade stays
up. With this extra push not only was I able to enroll in program my high school had, where I
would attend Rockland Community College during my senior year instead of finishing at the
high school. By the end of that year not only had I graduate high school but had a year's worth of
college credits as well. From there with his encouragement and flexibility with my school
schedule I was able to finish my second year of college while still work at his company. Richard
then continued to encourage me to continue my education even farther. By the time I was started
my second year at the community college he was asking where I wanted to go next, something I
really hadn't given much thought of until then. His influence really helped steer me to finding a
four-year degree I was interested in and perusing it. I currently have one year of schooling left
and even thinking about continuing it farther to getting my master's degree in information
system. For the reasons expressed above, and many other reasons as well, I emphatically believe
Richard is an ambitious, considerate, and empathetic man, who gladly attempts to instill these
traits onto anyone with the will and passion to accept his kindness.

Jonathan Dursi

 Case 7:17-cr-00058-KMK Document 45-1 Filed 11/05/18 Page 63 of 115

Juan Carlos Garcia
11111.1111111111
Elmsford, NY 10523
September 12, 2018
Honorable
Kenneth M. Karas
United States District Judge
United States Court House
300 Qua rropas St.
White Plains, NY 10601
Dear Honorable Kenneth M. Karas,
My name is Juan Carlos Garcia. I live in Elmsford NY with my wife Rocio and my two kids.. and
I have been working for Brega D.O.T. Maintenance Corp. since December23, 2013. I met
Richard Brega on September 2013 for my first interview for the service department job, and I thought
that he was a very good man to work for. I did have a second interview with Richard in November 2013
and that interview reassure me that he was the person I wanted to work for.
Richard always told us, and we still do today to work on peoples vehicles and worry about them paying
us at a later date. Even if the customer doesn't have the money it's ok if we think they are good people.
They will pay us sooner or later. Richard just believes in people and has helped so many customers who
are down and out on their luck and cannot pay when they pick up their vehicles. He doesn't even charge
them interest.
I am one of the main people who worked with William Popkave who was in charge of the Rockland
Boces bus fleet. I spoke with him quite a few times a week. I was always calling him asking him when he
was bringing in his buses for repair. He was in charge of everything over at Boces. We were not allowed
to fix anything unless he said so. Brega can only do what we have approval to do. That's the way it is in
the repair business.
I became close to Richards son Matthew. I still keep in touch with him. Matthew is really struggling and
not making enough money at his new job. Richard removed his children from the companies because
business has dropped off with all the never-ending negative press of his arrest.
This is an extremely sad situation. Richard Brega was an incredible caring boss and has put all of us and
his former companies first. He has removed himself and his children, so we can all maintain a job and
provide for our families. That has to be one of the most unselfish things anyone I know has ever done.
Please take all of this into conside .tion when it comes time for Richard Brega to be sentenced.

Juan Carl

arcia

 Case 7:17-cr-00058-KMK Document 45-1 Filed 11/05/18 Page 64 of 115

Julio Chapa
Sleepy Hollow, NY 10591
October 17, 2018
Hon. Kenneth M. Karas
United States District Judge
United States Courthouse
300 Qua rropas Street
White Plains, NY 10601
Dear Judge, Karas
My name is Julio Chapa. I was hired by Richard Brega October 5, 2009. I had no
skills but wanted to learn how to be an automobile mechanic. I had no tools and I
was a little wild back then. Rich spoke to me for about a half hour and offered me
a job. He told me I had to straighten up and I would in one month take a drug
test. Then I would be randomly tested just like everyone else in the company.
Rich let me use his tools until I saved up enough to buy my own. I went from
knowing nothing to becoming a B level mechanic.
In 2016 Rich gave me an opportunity to advance myself and learn a new trade.
now work in the body shop and am the lead painter.
Thanks to Rich Brega taking a chance on me, I have made something of myself.
have a live-in partner and 2 children.
Thank you for reading my letter and hope you can see who Richard Brega really is.

fc
Julio Chapa

 Case 7:17-cr-00058-KMK Document 45-1 Filed 11/05/18 Page 65 of 115

Kaitl n Brega
Tomkins Cove, NY 10986
September 27, 2018
Honorable
Kenneth M. Karas
United States District Judge
United States Court House
300 Quarropas St.
White Plains, NY 10601
Dear Judge, Karas,
My name is Kaitlyn Brega and Richard Brega is my dad. I am his oldest daughter. I am
aware he has been found guilty of three different crimes.
Both my mother and father divorced when I was very young. For the last 2 years I have
lived with my dad. My mother is moving to Florida, and my dad is a huge support system to
me, I do not know what I would do with out him. He encourages me to be a better person.
And will listen no matter the circumstance. I was home when the FBI arrived that morning
with great force, they were so many of them. They told me to stay inside my room,
meanwhile an agent was waiting outside my bedroom door.
I could hear them talking to my father, basically threatening him. Telling his life was over
and to say good bye to everything he had worked so hard for. 1 watched outside my window
as they took my dad away, and I think about that moment almost every single day. I now
see a therapist and it is most defiantly one of the main topics I speak with her during our
sessions. I know my father offered to turn himself in many times, and he is certainly not a
violent man. Why would they do this to my father, my family and I, why?
Soon after his arrest my dad stepped down from all his companies and told my two brothers
and I that we could no longer work for the company. We had to go find a job somewhere
else. I never when to college. I'm not the best student but I did enjoy working in the family
business. Unfortunately, that is no longer the case anymore. Now I work at a health food
franchise for only $11.00 an hour. It is really hard to now make my car payments as well as
car insurance.

 Case 7:17-cr-00058-KMK Document 45-1 Filed 11/05/18 Page 66 of 115

My dad told my brothers and I that we had to leave the company, so they would survive and
all of the 300 people who believed my dad could keep their jobs and feed their families.
Respectfully Judge Karas, I do not this this is fair, and I don't agree with it at all. I did a
good job and worked hard every day. I worked as a dispatcher. I was one of the people
who made sure the 10,00 people a day we transported were able to get to work and back
home safely every day. But (Jove my father, and I believe in him. He said that this is the
right thing to do. So, it is what we all have done. We are a good family with huge hearts. I
don't know how we are going to get through this. My dad used to work six and a half days a
week, He was on call 24 hours a day, 7 days a week, 365 days a year. Now he just sits at
home most of the time waiting for someone to call him for some type of help they may need.
This ordeal has broken him completely. I see the worry and sorrow in his face everyday
and it is painful for my entire family to see him this way. His worry is for all of us, not so
much himself. When you do sentence him, please see all of the good his has done. Please
see the Husband and Father he is. What are we ever going to do without him?
Thank you for taking time out of your day to read my letter and hopefully take some of my
words into consideration
Sincerely,

Kaitlyn Brega

 Case 7:17-cr-00058-KMK Document 45-1 Filed 11/05/18 Page 67 of 115

Kara DePaolis
Highland Falls, NY 10928
July 18, 2018
Honorable Kenneth M. Karas
United States District Judge
United States Courthouse
300 Qua rropas Street
White Plains, NY 10601

Your Honor,
I am writing to you on behalf of Richard Brega, who is appearing before your court due to a violation of
the law.
I was an employee of Richard Brega. In the time that I have known Richard I have come to see what a
great man he was, often staying longs hours in order to provide for his five children. While Richard
admits to his guilty plea, the fact remains that his children rely on their father for not only the basic
necessities, but the unique relationship he has cultivated. As a parent myself, I can't stress enough how
important every moment in your child's life counts.
When I came on board to Brega Transport Corp., I was a recent graduate from Dominican College with
no experience. Richard gave me the opportunity to have a career and took me on as Human Resource.
He believed in me and gave me the confidence that I have today. I went through many milestones while
with this company, from being a graduate, getting engaged, marriage, buying my first home, losing my
mother and then the biggest of them all, becoming a mother. Through all of these moments he was very
compassionate and supportive. I remember when going on maternity leave, on my last day he came in
and told me how important this moment was, becoming a new mother and how great it was going to
be. He reminded me that the Brega team was here for me and if I needed anything through this new
transition they were all there for me. It was very touching and reassuring. You see, Richard didn't just
look at us as his employees he looked at us as a family.
I have known Richard for four years, and he always achieves what he sets his mind to with the
dedication and sheer force of will. I hope you will consider the tenacity, self-awareness and courage of
this wonderful person during a troubled period in his life. Thank you for your consideration.

Sincerely,

 Case 7:17-cr-00058-KMK Document 45-1 Filed 11/05/18 Page 68 of 115

October 24, 2018
Honorable Kenneth M. Karas
United States District Judge
United States Courthouse
300 Quarropas Street
White Plains, NY 10601

Dear Judge Karas:
I am writing this letter as a character reference for Richard Brega for consideration when deciding on his
sentence.
I have known Richard Brega for over 5 years on a personal level. His daughters

and

) and

my daughters share a passion for horseback riding and ride at the same barn in West Nyack, NY (Nickel0-Farms).
In all the years that I have know him, Rich has been a dedicated father and husband — putting his family's
needs before his own. He is always there for his children, providing love and support for their activities —
whether it be to give them rides to the barn every day, so they can ride their horse or supporting them in
competitions. His priorities as a father have always come first.
In addition, he has been a community-minded supporter. I serve as the Youth Advisor for our local 4-H
chapter, which is a club of like-minded horse loving kids. We do community service and fund-raise for
local charities as part of our club's mission. Rich's kids are active members of this club, and he has always
provided support and assistance as needed to help our kids engage with the community.
Additionally, as part of this mission for our kids — Rich had offered to match whatever funds we were able
to raise for donations to boost our kids' impact on the community and charities. His generosity and
support have been instrumental in the continued success of our club.
Again, from my personal experience, Richard Brega has been an outstanding father supporting his children
— in their passions and dreams. There is nothing more important in life, in my opinion, than the love for
your children. Rich is a perfect example of this life purpose — a supportive and loving father.
For the sake of his family — I would ask that you consider this reference as proof of the good character and
excellent father that I have known Rich to be — and take this into consideration when implementing his
sentence.
Thank you, in advance, for your consideration and time.
Sinc

Kate Dizzine
Valley Cottage, NY 10989

 Case 7:17-cr-00058-KMK Document 45-1 Filed 11/05/18 Page 69 of 115

Honorable Kenneth M. Karas
United States District Judge
United States Court House

10/5/2018

White Plains, NY 10601
Kevin Connolly
Nanuet, NY 10954
Dear Honorable Kenneth M. Karas,
Your Honor,
I am writing to you on behalf of my friend Richard Brega, who is appearing before you after a conviction
of his peers in a court of Law.
I have known Richard since 1985.1worked for his father in the Nanuet School District for many years.
During that time I got to know the Brega family as an extension of my own, Richard a few years younger
than I, was an articulate young man with dreams of becoming a self-made business man much like his
grandfather Peter 45 years before who developed a transportation company in Valley Cottage, NY. That
still serves hundreds of children today each day.
The Man that appears before you has flaws, we all do, but we need to take the time to examine the
total record of the man. Richard has always helped others who were in need. As a young man he took
the time to assist friends who's vehicles needed repair at no cost, if asked he would go out of his way to
help and want nothing in return. As he grew older the desire for success was great and the results of
this determination and success would assist many. As the businesses he developed grew and prospered.
opportunities for many would develop. Lifelong friends would leave secure jobs and join his team,
Richard is a motivator who infects all who come in contact with him. He took risks to expand
opportunities for his employees and family.
The good that Mr. Brega has done has outweighed the errors he has made in his short time in the Public
Trust. It should be noted that many of us could not survive the scrutiny he has gone through this past
year. Though it all his character has remained steady and his resolve to accept the outcome resolute.
I ask for leniency as you take measure of the man before you. The positives for the community of
Rockland and the employees he served outweigh the errors in judgement he has been convicted of.
It is important to remember Richard has accomplished much at a time when the average person would
dare to risk anything. These risk takers serve an important purpose for us all, for without them many of
us would not be as successful as we are today..

Sincerely,

Kevin Connolly
Longtime employee of Consolidated Edison Company
Member of the BPOE Elks
Member of the knights of Columbus
Montrose VA Volunteer

 Case 7:17-cr-00058-KMK Document 45-1 Filed 11/05/18 Page 70 of 115

Honorable Kenneth M. Karas
United States District Judge
United States Courthouse
300 Quarropas Street
White Plains, NY 10601

September 3, 2018

Dear Judge Karas,

I am aware of the guilty verdict for Richard Brega and am submitting this letter as consideration for his
sentencing.
I have lived in Rockland County, NY my whole life and am currently living in Nanuet, NY. I am married for
14.5 years now and we have a 4 (5 this month) year old son. My work background is Business
Management/Bookkeeping. Currently I am a self-employed Bookkeeper and have been so for the past
13 years.
I first met Rich back in 1996 when I was managing a local gym. Rich would come in every night an hour
or so before closing to work out, which I later learned that the timing of his workout was based on
coming in after his kids went to sleep for the night. I can remember even back then thinking how great
he was with his kids, he was playful, patient and kind but at the same time expected them to be well
behaved and respectful. With my father leaving us when I was 2 it was great to see a man so involved in
his children's life, it gave me hope, and I couldn't wait to find my guy and have that type of family life.
Rich became friendly with the owner of the gym, they started working out together and at times would
be working out after hours. My best friend Lucinda started meeting me at night to work out as well and
after our workouts we would all end up sitting around the gym and chatting, then over time this turned
into us all going to the diner afterwards for chatting sessions. There were nights that we would be at the
diner for hours and hours. We would just talk about life, our troubles and joys. At times it felt like
therapy, Rich was always so supportive and reassuring with any issues or concerns and would give such
great insight. We would sometimes go out to the clubs together and Lucinda and I just knew if we were
out with them there was nothing to worry about we were safe and well protected.
Ultimately Lucinda and Rich got together and were married in June of 2002. I had the honor of being so
close to both and to see their love story unfold it again gave me great hope, with my father leaving my
mother I didn't have many positive relationships to learn from and this one is full of love, admiration,
trust and respect. It is great to witness and be a part of.
I found my guy in the fall of 2002. Rich and Lucinda were the first of my friends to meet him. Getting
their input, insight and approval was so important to me. We were engaged the following fall and set to
be married, I needed to be baptized to get married in the Catholic Church, so I began my schooling and
then had to pick godparents. Choosing Rich as my Godfather was a no brainer, he was such a great role
model, so supportive and I knew he would always be a part of my life.

 Case 7:17-cr-00058-KMK Document 45-1 Filed 11/05/18 Page 71 of 115

Over the years we have spent many significant events together from holidays, births, birthdays to
baptisms and weddings. But my favorite times are when we just get together for no other reason than
to spend time with each other, the spur of the moment dinners, casino trips, beach outings. The
conversations than are always the best, very reminiscent of our diner days. Rich always gives great
advice, help and support whenever needed and sometimes even when you don't realize you need it.
During some of these talks you could see the stress and worry from Rich, always stemming from either
how he would support his family, how his employees were taken care of and/or how his parents were
doing. From day one of meeting Rich you could see how much family means to him and how close he is
with his parents and siblings. From their Sunday dinners together to their holiday ritual of all piling into a
bus to go see the tree at Rockefeller Center, which I've had the pleasure of joining in on. Rich is an
extremely hardworking, committed individual. What he has achieved since we met is just astonishing
and so impressive and he's done it all by putting everyone else's needs, issues and obstacles first.
Always thinking ahead on how he can better the community and enhance others' lives. I've learned a lot
about having a good work ethic from Rich.
was born. He is the greatest joy of our lives.
my son
5 years ago, or
Throughout our pregnancy we knew there was a high chance that our little boy would have..
this was rough, not because of the possible diagnosis but because of all the possible
complications. Lucinda and Rich were always supportive and positive, they even hosted our baby shower
which came at a time of great concern and worry, there were complications that arose which meant he
would be born early and we were being monitored almost daily. We said prayers at the baby shower,
aloud and all together, which helped immensely. After MEM was born he spent 8weeks in the NICU,
we than very excitedly and with a bit of trepidation came home. The fear of the unknown and how we
were going to do our best to give him everything he needs was overwhelming. We came across this
They support
wonderful organization called GiGis Playhouse, a
and their families from birth thru adulthood. At the time the closest
individuals with
location was in NYC with one in the process of trying to open in Westchester. We dove in head first to
help with the start-up of the Westchester location and Rich and Lucinda were right there with us. Thanks
to Rich's generous support we now have a place where we know our son will be able to safely and
acceptably learn in a way that's beneficial for him. We have so much support now and it is such a
will be proud of one of the spaces that is named in his honor, thanks to Rich,
comforting feeling,
that is used to learn and practice life skills. We envision ...II excitedly bringing friends there to show

OM

them the plaque on the wall and then hanging with them up in "his room". The kind of support that
GiGis Playhouse provides, and Rich helped make possible for us will last a lifetime.
Rich has always given input, advice and been super supportive of tough decisions in my life from our
to. We look forward to all
diner conversation days to stressing about which kindergarten to send
our future conversations and continuing to have his insight and his support, so I ask that you
wholeheartedly take all of this into consideration on sentencing day.

Thank you for your time and consideration.

Sin rely,

u D an

 Case 7:17-cr-00058-KMK Document 45-1 Filed 11/05/18 Page 72 of 115

11.

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Oct 8, 2018
Honorable Kenneth M. Karas
United States District Judge
United States Courthouse
300 Quarropas St.
White Plains, NY 10601
Dear Judge Karas,
Kind, caring, genuine, thoughtful and honest...These are the words that
come to me when I think of Rich Brega.
I'm Lisa Owen, proud owner of Nickel 0 Farms in West Nyack, N.Y. We are
a family friendly horse farm that thrives on parents participating in their
childrens passion of horses.
Rich Brega has been a huge part of the joy that we have at Nickel 0. Rich
has always taken the time and care to ensure my trucks and trailers are
safe before we travel to horse shows with the children and their parents,
and of course, the children prized possession, their horse. I have a caravan
of cars that follow me to the horse shows. A show could be 1 hour away or
5, and I always count on Rich Brega to be the first car behind me to assist
me in driving the busy highways with my 6 horse trailer. Driving my big rig
is not always easy, Rich knows this and makes sure we get safely to our
destination.I am very thankful for his generosity. Rich is also a huge part of
our success at these shows, most parents only take care of their own kids,
but Rich goes above and beyond, he takes the time to set up tents to give
the kids shade, he sets up chairs to let the kids rest and has coolers of
water and food to make sure the kids are in top shape to compete.
Some of the kids have experience with their horses at shows and at the
farm while some do not, Rich knows this and takes the time to take each

 Case 7:17-cr-00058-KMK Document 45-1 Filed 11/05/18 Page 73 of 115

child under his wing and helps them in many ways to ease their anxiety.
Rich knows my job is in the arena so he helps with putting on saddles,
cleaning stalls, whatever it takes to ensure everyone has a great day with
their horse.
We also have a 4H club at our farm , our club name is "Horses R Us". 4H is
a community based organization that encourages kids to volunteer in the
community. 4H inspires kids and empowers them with skills to develop
leadership for a lifetime. Rich has always offered our club his facility for
meeting and practices. Without Rich Brega's generosity, I truly believe
our 4H club would not be the positive club that it is today.
As a single female business woman, I'm asking you to understand what
Rich Brega has done for myself, my farm, my customers and our
community. Rich is compassionate and necessary to our community.
Please take this all into consideration. I cant imagine what we would do
without Rich Brega.

 Case 7:17-cr-00058-KMK Document 45-1 Filed 11/05/18 Page 74 of 115

September 1, 2018
The Honorable Kenneth M. Karas
United States District Court Judge
Unites States Courthouse
300 Quarropas Street
White Plains, NY 10601
Lloyd Leon
Washingtonville, NY 10992
Regarding: U.S. v. Brega
Dear Judge Karas:
Thank you for taking time out of your busy schedule the read my letter, I
understand that my close friend, Richard Brega, will soon face sentencing and it is on this
matter that I am writing to you. I would like to share with you my appreciation of
Richard's Character and his many contributions to society and our community in
Rockland County.
Richard and I met in 201land have become close friends. I remembering my
Grandfather telling me that a close friend is very special because unlike a cousin or a
Brother in Law you have chosen each other and after all these years I know see how right
my Grandfather was. It is over these years of our friendship that I've seen firsthand
Richard's strong family values and the beautiful relationships he has with his wife
Lucinda and his five children. And over the years his charitable endeavors with ARC of
Rockland that helps children and adults with developmental disabilities, Richard's
commitment to encourage citizens to join our local Volunteer Fire Departments and fun
stuff too like the day he bought all the unsold hotdogs to help support North Rocklands
Sports Day.
Thank you so much for providing Richard Brega with a fair trial and as you
know, Richard will face sentencing in connection with his guilty plea to [Offense], and I
voluntarily chose to provide a character reference on his behalf. I have been Richard's
friend for several years and I know him to be a good man with good values who is truly
contrite over his current circumstances and that is why Judge Karas I ask you for leniency
in Richard's sentencing for all the good he's done over the years, for the sanctity of his
family which he holds so dear, and for the countless reasons I am proud to have Richard
as a friend.

Zeove

 Case 7:17-cr-00058-KMK Document 45-1 Filed 11/05/18 Page 75 of 115

Lorna Mann
Monroe, NY 10950
August 3, 2018
Honorable
Kenneth M. Karas
United States District Judge
United States Court House
300 Qua rropas St.
White Plains, NY 10601
Dear Honorable Kenneth M. Karas,
My name is Lorna Mann, I am a 5-year employee and Brega Transport. I am writing this letter regarding
my boss Richard Brega and his conviction. I am a high school graduate and was living with my mother.
My home life was not too good and I was having great difficulty finding a job.
I was first hired by Richard in August of 2012 as a bus monitor for special needs children.

Within that time for monitoring Richard, gave me opportunities to learn new things by allowing
me to work in the dispatch office for the school bus transportation. Several months into
working as a monitor, and doing odds and ends, Richard offered me a position as his
receptionist. This opportunity opened many new door for me. I was able to get full health
benefits which allowed me to have weight loss surgery which was something that I had been
striving for, for many years. Many times, Richard, would just call me and just advise me of how
well I was doing being placed into something that I had never done before. As another year
went by I was then asked if I wanted to become a dispatcher for the Tor/TZx line. With this all
happening once again so many more doors opened for me. I was then able to get my own
place, and car because being that when I started I didn't have a car and had to find a ride to
work every day.
With Richard giving me all these chances and opportunities, it made me feel as if I could do
anything that I put my mind to. I cannot believe how far I have grown in only 5 years. Richard
is the most amazing person I have ever encountered. Please look at what he has done for me
before you sentence him. He is a gift from god.

Ct

 Case 7:17-cr-00058-KMK Document 45-1 Filed 11/05/18 Page 76 of 115

1111111111
aiii
m
.
Tomkins Cove, NY 10986
September 16, 2018
Honorable
Kenneth M. Karas
United States District Judge
United States Court House
300 Quarropas St.
White Plains, NY 10601
Dear Judge, Karas
Brega and I am 12 years old now. My dad is Richard Brega. I know
My name is
my dad was found guilty of some crimes.
On January 26, 2017 a whole bunch of FBI Agents come to my house to get my dad.
They walked up to me and my mom in the driveway and said sorry they were early and
didn't want the children to see this. That is a lie because they sat on a regular basis for a
year at the end of our street and watched my mom take me to school every day.
Sometimes I could see them wave to us. They told my mom to leave and take me to
school. My sister Kate was still in the house too. Me and my mom went back into the
house to check on my dad and sister. I heard the FBI tell my dad his life is over, and he
better help them. The FBI even had bullet proof vests on and some kind of big guns with
them. Not just a small gun like the police have.
My bed room is upstairs, and I still have bad dreams all the time since then so my mom
sleeps with me every night and not down stairs with my dad. My dad used to work every
day. He loved his job and companies. He always wore a nice suit. Now my dad stays
home all the time and just wears jeans. He takes good care of me and our family. He
helps me and everyone at the horse barn and at the horse shows. He gets me a tutor, so I
do good in school and he never yells at us even when he gets mad.
I love my dad and I think he is good. Please help him. We need him, people at work need
him, the barn needs him, the 4H club needs him, our friends need him, and I really need
him.
Thank you

MIN Brega

 Case 7:17-cr-00058-KMK Document 45-1 Filed 11/05/18 Page 77 of 115

Lucinda Brega
Tomkins Cove, NY 10986
October 30, 2018
Honorable Kenneth M. Karas
United States District Judge
United States Courthouse
300 Quarropas Street
White Plains, New York 10601
Dear Judge, Karas
I am writing you on behalf of my husband Richard Brega. I know he has been
found guilty of three of the charges that have been brought against him. I am
currently a 46-year-old housewife and have spent the last 20 years of my life with
the man I love. I have a high school education, and we have five children. I know
Richard III, Matthew, and Kaitlyn are not my biological children, but I have raised
them over the past 20 years and love them as they are my own. Richard III
currently is living on his own with 3 roommates in Belleville New Jersey.
Matthew, Kaitlyn,11111111, and
all live with Rich and I in Tomkins Cove
NY. I have read Richards sentencing report and I saw there was no mention of
Matthew or Kaitlyn living with us.
Rich is not driven by money or greed. He gives his shirt off of his back to anyone
in need. All you have to do is simply look at his life. After being awarded
approximately 100 million dollars in transportation contracts over a five-year
period he didn't spend any of the money on himself or our family. No new
furniture, no new cars, no pool, no boat, no time shares or 2nd home or vacation
home, Nothing! All the money went to charities or helping improve his
employee's lives.
He takes care of both my parents as well as his own. Anything they need help with
Rich is one they turn to. And he just doesn't help our family he helps everyone.
He does not discriminate. Please read all the letters that have been sent to you on
his behalf. He helps the 4H youth club, the kids at the horse barn, Rockland
Rowing, people with addictions, health issues, insurance problems, people who are
down and out, people with behavioral issues, mental issues, confidence issues. He
gives people used cars, ambulances, furniture, clothing, child car seats, car repairs,

 Case 7:17-cr-00058-KMK Document 45-1 Filed 11/05/18 Page 78 of 115

auto parts, class room training, tools. He covers people's legal expenses and gives
young people internships. Then on top of that he takes care of so many charitable
organizations. I don't think in the 20 years I have known him he has said no to
anyone.
When Sara Willette from the probation department interviewed me, she asked if
there was one thing I could ask you the Judge who is sentencing my husband what
would I ask. I told her that if Rich has to serve some form of jail time or
confinement that it could be house arrest in our home. The company that
Richard's Brother Jason now owns and the companies that I now own have over
300 employees. I have not worked since I was 24 years old. I do not have a
college education. Jason and I need help, we need guidance. Rich has been
disbarred for three years by the Federal Government. He cannot go in and run the
companies, but he can talk to me. Explain things to me. I need to somehow learn
what to do. And I certainly don't know how to run or manage a company of this
size. Since Rich's arrest I have been in a serious fog. My brain 'list cannot focus.
My doctors have prescribed me
, and
as well as to help me

I know Richard's Attorney Kerry Lawrence offered multiple times to have Rich
voluntarily surrender himself any day any time to authorities. They were told no.
On January 26, 2017 as I was walking with my 10-year-old daughter II. to
our car in our driveway to take her to school as I do every day. Up to about 10 or
12 FBI Agents pulled up blocking me in my driveway. They got out of their cars
with there bullet proof vests and very large Rifles or shotgun looking guns in plain
sight. The FBI told Kaitlyn to stay in her room and they put a female agent outside
her door. During his arrest, I could hear them telling my husband "your life is
over. Say goodbye to everythingyou have ever worked for." Still to this day I
room every night with her because she has
have to sleep upstairs in
nightmares over all of this and
gets bullied in school fro
and
MEM
her peers as well as some of the school's staff.
I know Rich has done wrong, but no children were ever put at risk. No buses ever
got into an accident. Rockland Boces had one of the highest safety rating in the
entire State of New York. Please look at all the evidence. Rich is Mr. Safety, he
would never in a million years put anyone at risk! He voluntarily stepped down
from all his companies. He removed our children form the businesses as well. So,
no other non-family member employee would have to lose their job do to the down

 Case 7:17-cr-00058-KMK Document 45-1 Filed 11/05/18 Page 79 of 115

turn in business. He never set up any trusts as he was advised to for the kids or me.
He took everything we have and put it back into the businesses after his arrest to
make sure all the employee's and their families would be ok. He made sure all of
the 10,000 commuters who relied on his former company were still able to get to
and from work to provide for their families every day. He made sure the 500
disabled children that he once transported every day were properly looked after.
All Rich has done is worry about everyone else and fix everyone else's problems.
I ask that you not sent Rich to prison so he can now help us survive the trauma we
are all enduring.
Very truly yours,

Lucinda Brega

 Case 7:17-cr-00058-KMK Document 45-1 Filed 11/05/18 Page 80 of 115

Luis S. Chapa
m.
Sleepy Hollow, NY 10591
August 24, 2018
Honorable
Kenneth M. Karas
United States District Judge
United States Court House
300 Quarropas St.
White Plains, NY 10601
Dear Honorable Kenneth M. Karas,
Your Honor,
I am writing to you on behalf of Richard Brega, who is appearing before your court due to a violation of
the law.
My name is Luis Chapa, I live in Sleepy Hollow New York, with my wife and my 3 sons. I am employed at
Brega D.O.T. Maintenance Corp. as a mechanic since August of 2000. For the past 16 years I have
attended Saint Teresa of Avila Church with my family every week.
I am aware that my ex-boss and friend, Richard has been found guilty, so I am writing this letter to you,
your honor on his behalf.
I met Richard 16 years ago, looking for a job, I spoke very little English. Richard offered me an
employment opportunity at Brega D.O.T. Maintenance. While working here, Richard spent time helping
me become familiar with and teaching me the English language. I knew nothing about being an
automotive mechanic. Rich worked side by side with me teaching me my trade. He loaned me the
money interest free to buy my tool box and tools. When my apartment caught on fire I had no other
means of support mentally or physically. Richard helped my family and I get back on our feet. He
helped in any way he could, he provided clothes for my children, food, etc. Without this support I don't
know where my family and I would be today.
Eventually I was able to apply for citizenship for the USA and Richard offered to sponsor me. For this I
am forever grateful. If it wasn't for this man, I wouldn't be where I am today, he put hope into me, and
he effortlessly gave his time when a person was in need. because of him, I am who I am today. I was
given a chance to live the American dream.
On sentencing day please, please see Richard as the man he really is and not the man he is accused of
being.

Luis Chapa

 Case 7:17-cr-00058-KMK Document 45-1 Filed 11/05/18 Page 81 of 115

Schreck and Company
Certified Public Accountants, RC.
New York, New York 10001

1111111111111

Fax

September 17, 2018

Honorable Kenneth M. Karas
United States District Judge
United States Courthouse
300 Quarropas Street
White Plains, NY 10601
Honorable Kenneth M. Karas:
Richard Brega Jr. is before you for sentencing. It is with difficulty that I try to reconcile this position
with the man I have grown to know. Regardless of how or when I achieve reconciliation, the Court has
voiced its opinion and must be respected. I believe in the rule of law as I know does Richard.
Richard and I met in a professional manner just prior to the construction of a new transportation
facility in Valley Cottage, New York. I provide to my clients tax, accounting and advisory services
through the accounting firm to which I am the principal. In an introductory meeting which lasted
almost two hours, I cannot adequately express how impressed I was at the vision that this man put
forth for the transportation of persons in Rockland County for decades to come. Transporting the
elderly, the impaired and the working people in the community that he resided in was his dream.
Refining the system seemed to be child's play to Richard. He saw the weaknesses and provided
solutions. He understood what people who needed the system required to make their daily life easier to
cope with. Utilizing state of the art transportation software applications, vehicles and equipment to
enhance the experience and provide efficiency and profitability to the customers and their riders,
whomever they may be, was a dream that Richard believed was achievable. And he was more than
prepared to make it happen.
He laid out for me the building plans for a new transportation facility located in Valley Cottage, New
York. He saw this to be a central location. He saw this as the ability to provide jobs to local residents.
He saw this as a way to bring prominence to the County of Rockland. Since the completion and
commencement of operations, I can tell you from first hand witness, every person has been simply
blown away by the professionalism exhibited at this facility. Without exception. It is a testament to the
care and devotion and passion that Richard Brega Jr. brings to life.

 Case 7:17-cr-00058-KMK Document 45-1 Filed 11/05/18 Page 82 of 115

Honorable Kenneth M. Karas
United States District Judge
September 17, 2018
Page 2

Please understand that this is not about ego to Richard. He could care less. It is for the pride he feels in
doing the best possible job to achieve the goal. And in this journey, the needs of others was always
taken into account. Whether it be turkeys at Thanksgiving time, or a Company holiday party, or
making certain that the proper equipment was available to allow employees to perform at their best,
Richard was always thinking about these things. And he worked hard to protect the work environment
for his employees when others told him not to because of costs or internal company politics. Richard
was simply always greeting his employees, seeing how they were doing, seeing how they viewed
things and then taking all of this into account when operating the Company.
Without question, Richard provided the vision and leadership necessary to gain the loyalty and respect
from the Company's employees, its vendors and its customers.
Throughout the years I worked with Richard, a theme continually expressed was the level of care in
which he wanted to provide to the less fortunate. The Company provided transportation services to
children with disabilities. Most required wheelchair accessibility. Most required the need for an
onboard aide. Richard made certain that the Company communicated with the children's parents
whenever there was a schedule change or holdup to the delivery time. He always made certain that the
children felt safe and looked to minimize any of their anxieties. Given that I grew up with a sibling in a
similar situation, I was acutely aware of the special touches to which Richard directed be done. The
seemingly small things that were done that others might take for granted were huge and meant so much
to the families involved.
This interest in others that Richard displayed crossed over onto his family life. I believe it important to
express that Richard is very much a family person. His interest in his family is relayed to others with
passion. He knows everything that is going on with them and is there to help in guiding them. He has
tried to instill values such good work ethics, good educational learning experiences and values of
kindness and generosity to those of less fortune. I have seen his children working at the Company over
the years in various positions. Richard was proud to see them learning the characteristics of a good
•work ethic and experience.
I wish to clarify information that I have seen relative to Mr. Brega's assets. His probation report
indicates that the value of his business is $14,217,966. This figure represents the total assets as
reported in the December 31, 2017 combined financial report of RTB Properties LLC and Affiliates.
However, the total liabilities as reported in this same report is NOT reflected in the probationary
report. Total liabilities at December 31, 2017 is $15,413,368. Therefore, the net deficit in these entities
total $895,402. Given the current conditions at the companies due to the loss of contracts, I suggest
that a zero amount be placed on the value of these combined business enterprises. The Brega family
has essentially lost all of its assets and future earning capacity.

Schreck and Company
Certified Public Accountants, P.C.-

 Case 7:17-cr-00058-KMK Document 45-1 Filed 11/05/18 Page 83 of 115

Honorable Kenneth M. Karas
United States District Judge
September 17, 2018
Page 3

I also wish to clarify that it appears Richard Brega is presently receiving payment on the notes
achieved in the sale of his business interest. However, the bank to which he is a guarantor on certain
obligations, is receiving the monthly payment. For as long as these loans are outstanding and while all
payments which are due and owing are being remitted, the bank will be the recipient of these funds and
not Richard Brega. Therefore this income is NOT being received into the household. Essentially the
Brega family is without assets and without a source of income. Their ability to maintain a stable
environment for Mrs. Brega and their children has been all but lost.
Thank you for reading this letter. I know and appreciate that your time is valuable. It is my hope that
the aforementioned provides some insight into the man I have grown to know and admire. And that
this insight will assist in guiding you in your decision.
Very truly yours,
SCHRECK AND COMPANY, CPA, P.C.

Marc E. Schreck
Certified Public Accountant
MES/me

•Schreck and Company
Certified Public Accountants, P.C.

 Case 7:17-cr-00058-KMK Document 45-1 Filed 11/05/18 Page 84 of 115

Honorable
Kenneth M. Karas
United States District Judge
United States Court House
300 Quarropas St.
White Plains, NY 10601
October 1, 2018
Dear Honorable Kenneth M. Karas,
My name is Maria Feola and I am aware of the guilty verdict for my son in law
Richard Brega. I am submitting this letter on behalf of myself and my husband for
your consideration in Richard's sentencing.
I am 73 years of age and have been a house wife and a mother my entire life. My
husband is 80 years old and is a retired retail clothing store manager. I recently
had cataract surgery and no longer able to drive at night. My husband is suffering
We survive on social security and still are able to live on our own.
with
We are able do so only because of Richard. As you know social security doesn't
go very far today living in New York. My husband does not have a pension.
Richard is the most giving, loving, caring man you have ever met. For the last two
years of my father's life he had great difficulty walking. To get in and out of the
car was impossible. Richard would leave work, bring one of his handicap buses
with a wheel chair lift and take my father and I any where we needed to go. He
takes care of our car. He shovels the driveway. He makes sure the lawn gets
mowed. He takes us to the doctor because at our age its hard to understand
what they say sometimes. If there are any necessary repairs to the house, he
my husband gets
finds someone and takes care of it. Because of the
very.... Richard is the one who calms him down. Richard will just sit with
daddy for hours and talk to him about the old days, even though he hears the
same story's over and over again, Richard never loses his patients.
For our 50th wedding anniversary Richard took us on a seven-day cruise. We got
to spend the entire trip with our 5 grandchildren. Could anyone ask for more that
that? It was the trip of our lives. My husband and I are so lucky that our daughter
married such an incredible thought full man. Even though Richard is now in big

 Case 7:17-cr-00058-KMK Document 45-1 Filed 11/05/18 Page 85 of 115

trouble, we think our daughter Lucinda made a good choice marring this man. If
you could only spend time with him, you would see for yourself how good of a
man he really is.
Our daughter Lucinda has been a stay at home mom as well raising 5 children.
Richard has always been a workaholic, but he never let Lucinda, the children or us
feel like we didn't come first. No matter how busy he is we all come first. It's just
the why he is.
God only knows what any of us are going to do if you decide to send him away to
prison. Please, please don't. That's all I can do is ask. Richard really is a good
man!

Maria Feola

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R sun-ante

of Suffern

Marcello's Ristorante of Suffern
Suffern, NY 10901
cell
October 16, 2018

Hon. Kenneth M. Karas
United States District Judge
United States Courthouse
300 Quarropas Street
White Plains, NY 10601
Honorable Kenneth NI. Karas:
My name is Mario Marcell° Russodivito, and I am the Chef/Owner of Marcello's
Ristorante in Suffern for over 32 years in Rockland County. In my 32 years of
interacting with customers and vendors, I have yet to meet a finer gentleman as in
Richard Brega. Knowing him for over 15 years, I've found him to be a most humble,
modest, and down to earth individual. And quite patient, on one occasion I asked
him to wait for close to an hour for a table, and his response was "don't worry
Marcello". It's rare to find such character nowadays. Even more so, his wife Lucinda
is just as sweet, and their children exemplify their kind, courteous, and loving nature
in their upbringing. It has been a pleasure to service Richard and his family and
watch them grow; and over the years our friendship strengthened, and I was able to
discover how he is a deep and caring man.
I consider myself a "humanitarian", and I think this is what impresses me the most
about Richard. He, too, has many similar qualities to mine. Marcello's Restaurant is
involved in numerous charitable organizations such as Good Samaritan Hospital,
People to People and ARC/Jawonio which Richard always was a major supporter.
Richard was the first person who selflessly offered to be our main supporter for two
concerts for struggling operatic/pop artists to perform for those who could never
afford to travel to New York City to experience and appreciate the fine arts.

 Case 7:17-cr-00058-KMK Document 45-1 Filed 11/05/18 Page 87 of 115

Honorable Kenneth M. Karas
United States District Judge
October 16, 2018
Page 2

Richard knew how important this event was for me as I spoke to him of my plans
and jumped right on board, since he saw my passion for what I believed. This is how
he bases most of his life. In our conversations, I learned that he would always keep
his clothes laid out (with socks and shoes] nearby his bed just in case he would get
"the call" that a driver couldn't make it to work and he needed to step in quick. Or
the time he had a passenger horribly soil the seat and aisle of one of his buses, so
Richard took control of the situation and cleaned the mess. These actions left quite
an impression in my mind, and is the way that I also treat my business. I give 100%
of myself to my personal life and my business, and I feel Richard is just as worthy of
these same attributes.
Richard has so much more to offer the community; it would be a shame to not utilize
his talents. In light of all the wonderful things Richard has done for our community
and others and still has so much more to spare, and for the passion his has for his
family and all the efforts he has put into his business, I would ask for your
compassion and your fairness when you consider Richard's future.

We trust in you,

Mario Marcello Russodivito
Chef/Owner
Marcello's Ristorante of Suffern

MMR/car

 Case 7:17-cr-00058-KMK Document 45-1 Filed 11/05/18 Page 88 of 115

Mary Ann Paccione
11111111111111111.11111111
West Haverstraw, NY 10993
September 24, 2018
Honorable
Kenneth M. Karas
United States District Judge
United States Court House
300 Quarropas St.
White Plains, NY 10601

Dear Judge, Karas

I am writing this letter on behalf of Richard Brega and my experience with him over a decade.
I am a lifetime resident of Rockland County and the Brega family is well known family in the
County. They are a very well-respected family with honorable values and work ethics form
grandparents to the great grandchildren. The Brega family is just a wonderful family and has
taught all their family members to be honest, respectful and to work hard. Most of the family
members have working at an early age in the bus company doing everything from cleaning the
buses to driving when they became of age.
As for Richard Brega. He has always been a wonderful caring parent of five children and
husband from what I have observed. He always puts his family first and is very proud of his
whole family. His wife Lucinda is just a wonderful mother and it is always pleasuring to be in
her company. Richard is very involved in his children activates and always makes time to attend
and support their activities of horse riding, cheering and sports on the weekends. His younger
children are so well behaved and such a pleasure to be around they have done a wonderful job
raising them. As for his older children, they have matured into wonderful young adults.
He continues to care for is parents whenever they need his assistance and is always willing to
help his brothers when needed. Richard is always willing to help anyone in need and does not
hesitate to get involved no matter the issue.
As for my personal experience with Richard is one that I regard as nothing but a wonderful
man. When I had a tragic loss of my sons, he was very kind and supportive to my whole family.
Richard just took over and made sure we had everything we needed. When you have the
horrifying experience of losing a child you cannot even think straight, let alone make sure there
is food and plans laid out for friends and the rest of your family. I will never forget his kindness
to my family at such a difficult time.

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His children are still young and need their father around to support and guide them. I ask the
Court to look at the good person Richard is and to consider how this situation will have such a
negative effect on his family. Richard is a good person and I know he regrets his actions and its
effect of it on his family.
Please reconsider the punishment because Richard has always been a model citizen and the
first person to offer a helping hand when one is needed.

Yours truly,

Mary Ann Paccione

 Case 7:17-cr-00058-KMK Document 45-1 Filed 11/05/18 Page 90 of 115

Matthew Brega
Tomkins Cove, NY 10986
October 10, 2018
Honorable
Kenneth M. Karas
United States District Judge
United States Court House
300 Qua rropas St.
White Plains, NY 10601
Dear Judge, Karas
I am aware of the guilty verdict for Richard Brega and I am submitting this letter
as consideration for his sentencing.
I am one of Richard Brega's oldest children, I am 24 years old. My parents were
divorced when I was three, but my father always stayed active in my life. He
came to every sporting event I ever had. He came to every single one of my IEP
meetings for school and he is always there for me emotionally every time I get
upset. My father instilled a strong work ethic into me by having me work in the
company since I was 15 years old. I never liked school. I would have rather been
working so I decided not to go to college instead I put all my efforts into learning
the family business to one day take it over. My dreams were crushed after my
father was arrested, the business started to struggle, and he told my brother, my
sister and my self that we had to leave the business and find work some where
else. I now work at Ramsey Volvo in Ramsey NJ in the parts department making
$12.00 an hour and working an average of 55.58 hours a week. As you could
imagine I am having a ton of issues trying to pay all of my bills including my rent,
car payment, car insurance and food. Most of the issues are from me having to
leave the company, the other part is because my mother is moving to Florida and
kicked me out of her house in order to sell it. lgot my own apartment in April but
just cannot cover the bills. I just moved into my father house on September 30th.
Without him I would be on the street. I always have been impressed by my father
for someone that had built such big companies with over 300 employees. He

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would always make the time to go around and check on everyone in the
company, including myself asking how they were and how's their family and also
seeing if they need anything. Now I only get to spend time with my father on my
day off what is Sunday. We have dinner and if football on to watch the games.
It's my favorite day of the week because I have time to be with the one person
who is always there in my life. He is a great man and my whole family needs him,
please don't take him away from us. I pray he will get a second chance in life and
that one day I will be able to work with him again. I really miss it. My father is a
fountain of knowledge and he is the most incredible mentor to me and so many
others. So, when you sentence my father please take into consideration what he
is and what he means to my family and so many others. Please don't just look at
him as just a man who did something wrong, because he is so much more.

'Matthew Brega

 Case 7:17-cr-00058-KMK Document 45-1 Filed 11/05/18 Page 92 of 115

°sive! Joseph
Nyack, NY 10960
October 19, 2018
Honorable Kenneth M. Karas
United States District Judge
United States Courthouse
300 Quarropas St.
White Plains, NY 10601
Honorable Kenneth M. Karas,
If I have to talk about Richard Brega it could be a book, he is a hero in my life. I know Richard
since I was hired as a mechanic in August 2004. I worked for him about 11 plus years. Even I
am not a present worker I have nothing to complain about him he was a wonderful boss.
When I started working for him I had a little van all rusted out. In less than one month he
surprised me with a van used but like new and gave me money to register the van.
In 2006 when I bought my house I couldn't afford to buy furniture, and one afternoon I just saw
a pickup truck loaded with all kind of furniture in front of my house unloaded free of charge.
In 2010 when my Country Haiti was hit by an earthquake he gave me a big van with a driver to
go all over collecting stuff to ship to Haiti to help people. Also, in 2010 when my mom came to
the USA he didn't let me by one jacket for my mom he already provided everything my mom
would need. In 2014 my daughter when to College the school organize a trip to Africa Richard
help me pay the fee. I never forget Richard used to organize every summer a boat trip you
don't have to bring anything he provided all the food and everything you needed. When I was
working for him he got so much respect for me some time I even asked myself who am I. One
day he told me you are not an employee, you are one of the family members and he treated me
like a family member. He always brings me cloth for myself and for my family and to help other
people who are in need. Finally, I love Richard and the whole family if there is anything I can do
to get him out of trouble I will not hessite to do so.
Sincerely,

Osvel Joseph

 Case 7:17-cr-00058-KMK Document 45-1 Filed 11/05/18 Page 93 of 115

Patricia Statler

111111111
West Nyack, NY 10994
August 27, 2018
Honorable Kenneth M. Karas
United States District Judge
United States Courthouse
300 Qua rropas St.
White Plains, NY 10601
Honorable Kenneth M. Karas,
I am writing to you on behalf of Richard Brega. I am aware that Mr. Brega has been found guilty of the
charges that were brought against him. I am writing to you to tell you a little bit about the man I know
Richard Brega to be.
I would like to introduce myself. My name is Patricia Statler and I have lived in West Nyack, NY for the
last 14 years. I work for Camp Venture, Inc. which is an agency that serves Intellectually Disabled and
Physically Disabled children and adults. I have worked for Camp Venture for the last 33 years. I am
currently the Director of Children's Services. I have held many positions at Camp Venture through the
years, from a direct care worker, transportation coordinator, training director and my current position.
serve as a board member on the Brandon Smith Foundation. This organization was founded in 2017
after my son's friend committed suicide at the age of 17. The purpose of the foundation is to bring
awareness to mental health and suicide. We, as a board, award scholarships to students throughout
Rockland County, based on sportsmanship, community service and academics. I am also the past
Committee Chair of Boy Scout Troop 78 in Nanuet, NY.
I have known Richard Brega in the early 1990s when he first started his business. I have always known
Richard to be a caring, generous person. Richard had a plan to make the transportation, for the disabled
people my agency serves, better. He designed buses that were safe and not so stigmatized. When
Richard first started transporting the people from Camp Venture, they felt like they were riding in
limousines. Richard saw how some of these people came dressed to program. Many times, our people
would get on the buses, in the winter with short sleeves and no jackets. That Christmas, Richard bought
sweatshirts for every person he transported. He had each one wrapped and gave it to them as they got
off the bus. He knew that they were now warm. They were so grateful. For some of them, this was the
only Christmas gift they received. The smiles on their faces said it all.
I have taken my car to Brega DOT Maintenance since the 1990s. Working in the field that I work in, I do
not make much money. When I had a repair that was very costly, Richard allowed me to make minimal
payments to pay off the bill. One day, my car broke down on my way to work. Richard sent someone to
pick me up and take me to his shop. When I got to the shop, Richard told me that I could take his car to
work, home and use it until my car was fixed. When I returned the car to Richard, I made sure to fill the
tank. Richard told me that he did not expect me to put gas in the car. In 2010, my husband died.
Richard was the first to ask me what I needed and how could he help me. I asked that I be allowed to
continue to make payments on my car bills as my income, was now all I had. Richard agreed. As a
matter of fact, one day I had gone to the shop to make a payment on my bill. Richard saw me and came

 Case 7:17-cr-00058-KMK Document 45-1 Filed 11/05/18 Page 94 of 115

over and told me I was paying too much toward my bill. Richard told me to pay all of my other bills first
and if I didn't have money to pay him, so be it. Richard assured me that he would continue to work on
my car even if I couldn't pay him. Every time I saw Richard, he asked me if there was anything I needed
or if there was anything I needed for my son.
I have always known Richard to be a kind, generous, family man. I remember when Richard first started
his business, he was working crazy hours, but he went home every night to say good night to his children
and put them to bed. He would return to work after that, most nights until 2am. Richard would also
make sure to see them in the morning before he left for work. His children came before anything else.
I am hoping that you will take into account what I have told you that I know about Richard Brega when
you make your decision in sentencing. Richard really is a very decent person.
Thank you for taking the time to read my letter.

Sincerely,
•_..
ICA
Patricia Statler

 Case 7:17-cr-00058-KMK Document 45-1 Filed 11/05/18 Page 95 of 115

Paul Chiorazzi
Stony Point, New York 10980
October 5th, 2018
Honorable Kenneth M. Karas
United States District Judge
United States Courthouse
300 Quarropas St.
White Plains, New York 10601
Dear Honorable Kenneth M. Karas,
I am writing to you on behalf of Richard Brega. I am fully aware of the guilty verdict for Mr.
Brega and I am writing this letter as consideration of his sentencing.
My name is Paul Chiorazzi and I have lived in Stony Point, NY for the last 23 years. I am the
owner of AutoPro which is an auto parts distribution company. AutoPro has a large vast client
base which is from Rockland, Westchester, and Orange County where we pride ourselves in
quality work.
My relationship with Richard began when he started his repair company approximately 17
years ago. Over the years of doing business together a business relationship soon turned into a
friendship. Throughout the years Richard has been very helpful in allowing me to use his facility
to run training seminars where other technicians would come in to learn the best quality of
work skills. I found this to be absolutely amazing! Rich didn't just worry about himself and get
a competitive edge over everyone else. He allowed for all his competitors to have their
technicians trained as well! He pick-up the cost for everyone. This is a man who truly cares
about improving safety through training and creating a better-quality work force for the entire
repair industry. He didn't stop there he also helped me grow my business through multiple
business connections he had which has allowed for my business to remain successful. This is a
great quality that Richard possess, it showed me how much he cared to see the industry strive
for greatness which is hard to come by.
Not only was Richard a great business man but he was very family oriented. He was a big part
in sponsoring my youngest daughter's softball team. Through this sponsorship it has allowed
my daughter to receive a full scholarship to Manhattan College which has helped my family
greatly.
I am hoping in reading this you will take into account what I have wrote about Richard Brega
from my personal experiences when you make your decision in sentencing.
Thank you for your time and consideration.
Sincerely,

Paul Chiorazzi

 Case 7:17-cr-00058-KMK Document 45-1 Filed 11/05/18 Page 96 of 115

Paul Dursi

Pomona, NY 10970
MIME
July 12, 2018

Honorable Kenneth M. Karas
United States District Judge
United States 'Court House

. 300 Quarropas St.
White Plains, NY 10601

Dear Honorable Kenneth M. Karas,

1 am aware of the guilty verdict for Richard Brega Jr. My letter is being submitted to you
in connection to Richard's sentencing.
I am a resident of Pomona, NY and a life- long resident of Rockland County, NY. I grew
up in Valley Cottage, attended Nyack High School and received a Bachelor's in
Business Administration from Pace University. I am currently the Director of Safety and
Training -for- Liberty Lines Transit in Westchester. County, and have sewed my
community as the Condo board president for the past 4 years and have volunteered as
a coach for the little league and pop warner programs. I am also a proud dad of two
sons; I have been divorced since 2010.
Richard Brega has been an important part of my life, as well as my family and the
Rockland County community. Thirty nine years ago, when I boarded the bus on the first
day of school, to attend Nyack JR high school, I had no idea that I would meet a lifelong friend on the very first day. The year was 1979. We have been thru all of our life
events together since our teenage years, our first jobs at, Peter Brega Inc., High School
prom and graduation, graduating from College; we had spent many occasions together
at family parties and with family friends. We have seen each other get married and have
kids and watch our kids grow to be outstanding individuals. The best part is that we
have always been a special part of each other's families spending many, many holidays
and occasions together.

 Case 7:17-cr-00058-KMK Document 45-1 Filed 11/05/18 Page 97 of 115

Richard has always been very family oriented; he has been active with all five of his
children. Whether it was taking his girls to a horse show or just supporting them as the y
practiced at the barn, or the weekly Sunday dinners with his whole family, his wife
Lucinda always puts out an feast for all to enjoy. Since my divorce I was always invited
to Richards for every Thanksgiving Holiday, with my kids. It was a great thing to have a
place to go and spend it with his immediate and extended families, who accepted me
and my sons as a part of their own family. That has made it a special holiday for me and
my kids.
Richard has given me and my kids a second chance at life. In the late part of 20091was
laid off of my job and was out of work for two and a half months. I had lunch with
Richard and explained my situation (being laid off, and not working for over 2 months).
Even though I had no experience in the Vehicle maintenance industry, Richard believed
in me and my ability to learn, enough to give me a job, in a field where I had to learn
everything fresh. I learned that job and did well enough that I was promoted to three
different positions within his company. When I was promoted to the third position
(transportation manager) Richard took me out clothes shopping and paid for all the
clothes that we got that day, so that I would have the proper work attire. This
opportunity helped save me from my house being for closed on and my car being
repossessed by the bank. Richard has always been able to see the good in people
even when others didn't.
My son Jonathan also worked for Richard. Jonathan was in high school and looking for
an after school job, Richard offered him a job working in the shop and he too was
promoted to doing some computer work. Richard and Jon have always had a special
bond. Whenever I would give Jon advice as his dad, it was ok, but if Uncle Richard
explained the same thing to him he would soak up that advice like a sponge. We were
at a Bar Mitzvah and it was time for pictures but Jon ran and changed his clothes and
refused to put his suit back on because it was uncomfortable. It was Uncle Richard that
pulled him aside and spoke to him, I am not sure to this day their conversation but Jon
came back a few minutes later dressed in his suit with tie and everything and not one
complaint, not only for the pictures but for the rest of the event.
In 2010, my wife asked me for a divorce, 1 was totally blindsided by this. I turned again,
to my good friend, Richard. I had no money for a lawyer so my ex-wife and I went to a
mediator and settled our affairs. A week later she notified me that she was going to
move out to long Island with my kids. My world came to a stop. I met with Richard and
explain my situation, he told me something that no one else has ever said, now is the
time to get a lawyer and don't worry about what it is going to cost, I will take care of it, do you understand me?, don't worry about the cost you have to fight for your kids. I
found a lawyer and it was Richard that gave me the money for the retainer for him. By
doing so I was able to keep my kids in Rockland County and was able to keep being an
important part of their lives, as any dad should.
In May of 2017, 1 was given the opportunity to take everything 1 have learned while
working for Richard and accept my current position as the Director of Safety and
Training for a larger public transportation company in Westchester County. But first I
had to notify Richard that I was going to leave his company for this new opportunity. 1

 Case 7:17-cr-00058-KMK Document 45-1 Filed 11/05/18 Page 98 of 115

had met with Richard on a Friday night after work and told him of the opportunity that I
had and without hesitation he encouraged me to take it. Thanks to him, and his belief in
me and my abilities to learn and grow. I am now financially sound, have an awesome
relationship with my kids and I am a well-respected person in the public transportation
industry. NONE of this would be possible if it wasn't for Richard, his belief in my and our
39 year old friendship.
I could go on and on with many stories about Richard and his generosity towards many
people, and communities that Richard Brega has been an active and productive part of,
he has sat on many organizations boards .and participated with great pride and has
always been a hard working person that has helped the people around him.
On his sentencing day please take into consideration all of the good things that Richard
has done, and all of the people that he has helped get a new beginning in life.

Thank you for your consideration,
Paul Dursi

 Case 7:17-cr-00058-KMK Document 45-1 Filed 11/05/18 Page 99 of 115

Honorable Kenneth M. Karas
United States District Judge
United States Courthouse
500 Quarropas Street
White Plains, NY 10601
October 9, 2018

Dear Judge, Karas

I am the son of Richard Brega Jr. and am writing this letter for additional consideration of his
guilty verdict.
I am twenty-four years of age and my dad has been a key player in my time alive. He and my
mother split when I was 3 years old and even though that may be the case, he has always been
there for me through thick and thin. Through years of hard work and dedication (seeing I am not
the easiest person in the world to reach) he has helped me grow into the man that I am proud to
be today.
I am a graduate of SAE Institute in NYC which is a school specifically for Audio Engineering.
My dad helped me come to the conclusion that this was something that I wanted to do and
backed me up the entire way. School was rigorous and difficult but with the help of my family
(my dad's encouragement especially) I was able to graduate and begin looking for work.
Unfortunately, things did not work out the way I had expected.
Due to an oversaturated market for this specific field, finding work was extremely difficult and I
did not succeed. Who was there to pick up the pieces? My father Mr. Richard Brega Jr. He put
me to work at his company Brega DOT Maintenance where I learned how to work in the parts
department (seeing I am not technician handy.) Things were really looking up until the day of
my father's arrest. Once that occurred, my father told me that I had to leave the company.
What was I going to do? Ignore his wishes after he has helped me in the many ways that he
has? So, 1 left the company and began looking for work. I now work at Liberty Hyundai in
Mahwah NJ where I make a measly $12 per hour. My employer is not okay with overtime
either, so it is very difficult to makes ends meet. On top of that, my mother is moving to Florida
with her husband and I am not to go with them. This meant that 1 had to look for a place of my
own in the terrible economy while only making $12 per hour with little to no overtime. I currently
live in Belleville NJ with my girlfriend and 2 other roommates where I struggle to make rent, car
insurance, and my students loans every single month.
Before I began working at Liberty, I worked for Rockland Hyundai for a short amount of time
where I worked alongside Valerie (the book keeper who the FBI made testify against my father).
She cried to me about how she was constantly pushed by the prosecutor to testify against my
father who (being the caring soul he is) signaled her with a thumbs up letting her know it was
okay to say what she had to say while she was on the witness stand. My father cares about

 Case 7:17-cr-00058-KMK Document 45-1 Filed 11/05/18 Page 100 of 115

everyone and was sick to his stomach seeing his friend so scared. But that's the kind of man he
is, always looking to help others because he cares more about them than himself.
I am the oldest of my fathers children which makes me very worried for the wellbeing of my
younger brother and three little sisters if my father goes to prison. They have bright futures
ahead of them and it would be a shame to see that go to waste because mercy could not be
given to my dad.
My father is the one that we all turn to for advice because he is the voice of reason in our family.
He never yells, never gets too on your case about an issue, he just looks forward and helps us
decide the best way to fix the current situation. Without him, I am very afraid that myself and my
siblings will not have the guidance needed to reach our full potential.
In summation, I ask that you please show mercy on my father for he is a crucial part of the
puzzle that my family needs to get through our days. He constantly worries about us all, his
friends, and all the employee's. He is the soul advice giver that I look to in times of despair, and
I simply cannot see my family thriving the way I know that we could if he goes to prison.
Thank you very much for your time,
Sincerely,
r
,
/

Richard Brega III

 Case 7:17-cr-00058-KMK Document 45-1 Filed 11/05/18 Page 101 of 115

Robert Shanahan
West Nyack, NY 10994
October 1, 2018
Honorable
Kenneth M. Karas
United States District Judge
United States Court House
300 Qua rropas St.
White Plains, NY 10601

Dear Judge Karas

My name is Robert Shanahan. I am 20 years old. School was very hard for me so I left in
my Junior year. I work in the landscape business. I lost my dad to addiction in 2011 Richard has
done his best to try and fill any dads shoes. I get nerous and excited very easy and I get angry.
When that happens I call or go see Richard. He helps me. He helps me see things better.
Richard is the one I go to becasue my mom and I fight alot and She had to move to Florida. I
cannot live there. Richard found me a small apartment in the down stairs of someones house.
live by myself and i get very lonely. He lets me come over and eat when I run out of money
until I get my next paycheck. There is no way I can make it with out him. Please help him
because I need him to help me.

Robert Shanahan
•

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Loyal To Our Duty
October 25, 2018
Honorable Kenneth M. Karas
United States District Judge
United States Court House
300 Quarropas St.
White Plains, NY 10601
Dear Judge Karas,
The Rockland County Chapter (NY18) of the Red Knights International Motorcycle Club formed in
December of 2003 to promote fellowship of "firefighters" who enjoy motorcycle riding as a group.
One of the requirements and goals of our Chapter is to raise funds for a firefighter or a member of
our community who is in need of assistance. 100% of our proceeds go to our recipient.
We hold an annual "Benefit" Fundraiser at the Rockland Lake firehouse. From 2013-2018, Brega
D.O.T. Maintenance and Brega Transport Corp., who was formally owned and controlled by Richard Brega, has been one of the major participants in our annual benefit. They have graciously provided complimentary shuttle service within our venue Rockland Lake State Park. They have allowed us to get the maximum number of people to our event. The more people, the more money
we raise, the more to our recipient.
Please take this into consideration when you are reviewing the character of the man, Richard Brega.

I remain...
Sincere

ours

ohn Tobin
President

 Case 7:17-cr-00058-KMK Document 45-1 Filed 11/05/18 Page 103 of 115

11111111Brega
111111111.111111
Tom kins Cove, NY 10986
October 14, 2018
Honorable
Kenneth M. Karas
United States District Judge
United States Court House
300 Quarropas St.
White Plains, NY 10601
Dear Judge, Karas
My name isillIllBrega. I am 15 years old and I am a sophomore at Albertus Magness High School.
Richard Brega is my dad and I know of his conviction. The kids at school remind me of it on a regular
basis. I play field hockey and I am on the swim team at my school. I am also the Vice President of the
Rockland County 4H youth club.
The school district has issued me a
Academically I struggle, and I
Illand my father works with me after school with my homework. I also have a tutor two times a week.
This is my biggest weakness.
My mom is the one who usually take
He never runs out of patients or yells
the brunt of my
's my dad who
no matter what he is dealing with.
at me. He always makes time for me and
Dad is the one who helps me prep for all my 4H youth club presentations and practices with me. He is
the one in the back of the room who I focus on when I have to give my speeches. Even when I screw up
he smiles and give me a thumbs up letting me know everything will be ok.
and I with our horse. We have both risen to the
My father is the person who helped my sister
top ranks in our divisions and have received the status of Grand Champion. Now my dad helps all the
other kids and teaches them. He shows them how to be their best and have the courage to preform and
compete. Dad helps them with their saddles and their show gear. He walks them to the area where
they have to perform. He even helps them at the end of the day clean out their horse stalls.
I'm really prod of my dad. He built one of the largest transportation facilities' in the State and was one
of Rockland County's largest employer. He was even the first person to ever receive an award for
Business of the year and in the same year get business man of the year.
Now my father sits home most of the time. He voluntarily stepped down from his companies. He looks
so sad and worried. My dad is the glue that holds everything and everyone together. Please have mercy
on him. Everyone needs him. Especially our family. Especially me!

11111111
11111 Brega

 Case 7:17-cr-00058-KMK Document 45-1 Filed 11/05/18 Page 104 of 115

September 30, 2018

Honorable Kenneth M. Karas
United States District Judge
United States Courthouse
300 Quarropas Street
White Plains, NY 10601

Re: Richard Brega

Dear Judge Karas:
In 2007, Richard Brega walked into my office and gave me the Martin Luther "I Have A Dream" speech
about someday being able to build a company capable of winning the Rockland County TOR and
TZExpress transit contracts that provide the community of Rockland County transit bus service
throughout the county. Quite honestly, I thought he had no shot. It was just too far out of reach and he
would be competing against too many strong well established goliaths, such as Coach USA, as well as,
opposing political strength. But still, he was wide eyed, a little naïve, and knew he needed help. He had
this character of persistence. You liked him right away and I said, "Let's see what the kid can do."
I was one of the first people on Richard's financial team as I helped him cultivate a path to success. What
I've found over the past eleven (11) years of working with him and befriending him is that he's a man of
integrity and a man of humility. People often get the wrong impression of Richard because of the way he
carries himself; like he has this air of nobility; wholly untrue. If anything it's the exact opposite. Richard
is always humbled by the people he meets and those he knows, particularly those people who work for
him. Everyday Richard would walk around his facility to shake hands with his employees and spend time
talking with them; some just to ask about their lives, some just to say hello and see how their day was
going. He let everyone know that he was approachable and willing to listen.
When you talk about character and try to understand who a man is, one needs to only look at how he
relates to others and how those people speak about him. One of the reasons that Richard and I are such
good friends is that we have very similar characteristics in that regard. Like me, Richard is always one to
help a person in need. Some may say it's a character flaw, but it's a personal and professional strength.
It's never easy when a friend asks for your help; but you sacrifice and help. It's who we are. It's who
Richard is. In our eleven year friendship and professional relationship, Richard has always shown a
penchant for placing others before himself. It's evident when he talks about his company. He would
remind me at least three times a year, "Seth, it's 10,000 people a day. This is how they get themselves to
work and support their family." He is always acutely aware of the needs of others and the responsibility
that he and his company have for their safety and the well-being of their livelihoods.

 Case 7:17-cr-00058-KMK Document 45-1 Filed 11/05/18 Page 105 of 115

Page 2
Richard Brega

Many people looked up to Richard because of his personal and professional success, and yet he never
held that success over his head like a trophy. He has been dutifully serving the County of Rockland and
the people who utilize those services for his entire lifetime. He has raised the level of service provided in
every area from maintenance to transportation, with the safety of others as his primary concern. He has
done everything asked of him despite overwhelming difficulties. Richard should not be treated as a
pariah, but rather as a strong contributing member of a community that he grew up in and one in which
he provided for.
When you consider sentencing my friend Richard, please consider what's left to punish. Richard has
removed himself from his businesses to protect and ensure the continuity of employment for the people
who rely on their work to support their families. He is on the brink of being stripped of the ability to ever
participate in the only industry he's ever known by the Federal government. As such, he will have
extreme difficulty providing for his family now and in the future, since he has no other industry skills.
Richard is guilty of turning a blind eye to enable and help a friend. After all that he's lost, how would
time in jail serve the public good? Richard Brega is a good man who I'm still proud to say is my close
friend.
Thank you for your consideration.

Kind Regards/

Seth Gross

SETH GROSS
New vThyds NJ 0764:3- •

 Case 7:17-cr-00058-KMK Document 45-1 Filed 11/05/18 Page 106 of 115

SHANNON A. KEARNEY
GARFIELD NJ 07026

October 11, 2018

Honorable Kenneth M. Karas
Federal Building and United States Courthouse
300 Quarropas Street
White Plains, NY 10601-4150
Re:

Richard Brega

Dear Judge Karas:
My name is Shannon Kearney and I am twenty-two years old. I have known Richard
Brega since September of 2015 when I began dating his son, Matthew. I have seen how much he
loves his family and the special relationship that he has with each of his children.
My father passed away in October of 2016. I am an only child and it is just myself and
my mother living alone. Mr. Brega has noticed my struggles and has welcomed me into his
family with open arms. Since it is just my mother and I, it is very difficult for us to keep up with
our monthly expenses. When my car broke down and I could not afford to have it repaired, Mr.
Brega offered to pay for the expense for which I am extremely grateful. Mr. Brega has opened
his family and his home to me.
I know that Mr. Brega is involved with various charities that deal with children's mental
health issues. He is a caring and involved father to all five of his children, especially his two
youngest daughters. Mr. Brega attends his daughters' school conferences and functions and he
attends his daughters' horse riding competitions. All of his children benefit greatly from having
him physically present in their lives. Mr. Brega's family, and I would be devastated if he were
not party of our daily lives.
In closing, I would respectfully ask that Your Honor consider a merciful sentence that
would allow Mr. Brega to remain in the lives of the people who love him.

Respectfully,

Shannon A. Kearney

 Case 7:17-cr-00058-KMK Document 45-1 Filed 11/05/18 Page 107 of 115

Susan Lemin
Wash ingtonville, NY 10992
September 27, 2018
Honorable
Kenneth M. Karas
United States District Judge
United States Court House
300 Quarropas St.
White Plains, NY 10601

Dear Honorable Kenneth M. Karas,
I have worked in the bus industry sense 1986 in Orange County NY. In 2007 I was
offered a job with a private contractor in Rockland County. I felt a little uncertain
about making a big move but it was an opportunity for me to move forward in my
career. While working for this company I had the opportunity of meeting some
very successful people in the County building and NYS DOT Inspectors because I
was involved of all aspects of bus transportation. In 2010 the company that I was
working for lost the contract and I had gotten laid off. I then preceded to find
work on my own with the help the Rockland County Health Department. Then I
received a call from Mr. Richard Brega asking me if I would like to come in for an
interview. He explain he has an opportunity for me to join his team. I was
recommended by NYS DOT Inspectors. Richard Brega then preceded to show me
his facility. How he wanted to make his company successful and make a great
team. Richard was successful in having his dream come true. He received the
contract for Special Needs Early Intervention of Rockland County. Then the
following year Richard was then awarded the Tor and TZx of Rockland County. He
had his empire we became the largest bus provider in the area transporting over
10,000 commuters to and from work, over 500 special needs children and over
120 special needs adults every day. I consider Richard to be a caring and loving
person. In 2016 my daughter in law passed away. She suddenly passed and my
son called me at 6:30am. We were all in shock. They live in the State of Ohio.
Richard drove me home to my house in Orange County because I was an

 Case 7:17-cr-00058-KMK Document 45-1 Filed 11/05/18 Page 108 of 115

emotional wreck. My nephew also worked for Richard Brega as the Parts
manager and allowed him to leave also. This allowed the whole family to be able
to travel to Ohio together. The bereavement allowed by the company is 3 days.
Richard allowed me to say as long as I needed, to help my son and grandson, to
somehow become adjusted to our tragic loss. When I arrived back to NY he made
it a point of attending a small mass along with the family. This once again proved
to me he truly is an upstanding man, who is concerned about others. Though all
that has happened I cannot believe this is the man they are proclaiming in the
news paper. You see I know and I work closely with Rockland Boces and William
Popkave. The shenanigans that go on over there is unbelievable. It is William
Popkave who's character is truly in serious question. Not Richard Brega, that I can
assure you! In the bus industry you can only fix a bus or perform a bus run when
the district (Boces) allows you too. You cannot do anything without their
approval. It is now October 2018, !myself will stand by Richard Brega's side
along with his family and hopefully the Courts will grant him leniency for his
children, wife and all the others Richard Brega helps on a daily basis.

Susan Lemin

 Case 7:17-cr-00058-KMK Document 45-1 Filed 11/05/18 Page 109 of 115

Susan Osgood
1111111111.11111111
Pearl River, NY 10965
October 14, 2018
Honorable Kenneth M. Karas
United States District Judge
Unites States Courthouse
300 Quarropas Street
White Plains, NY 10601
Re: Richard Brega
Honorable Kenneth M. Karas:
My name is Susan Osgood and I am writing to you regarding the sentencing of Richard
Brega. I am aware of the charges brought against him in your court and the guilty
verdicts returned against him.
I am a Human Resources Executive at a global consumer electronics company in
northern New Jersey and have lived in Rockland County for most of my life. My
husband, Donald, is a lifelong Rockland resident and attorney in private practice in
Rockland County. My husband and I met Richard "Rich" Brega, his wife Lucinda and
their two daughters about 7 years ago at Nickel-0 Farms in West Nyack, New York,
where our daughter and Rich's daughters share a passion for horses and horseback
riding.
Currently, I serve as a Co-Leader to the non-profit 4-H youth organization, Horses R Us,
which works in partnership with the Cornell University Cooperative Extension of
Rockland County, of which my daughter and Rich's daughters are members. The 4-H
club is involved in educating visitors to Nickel-0 Farms and the general public on animal
husbandry, particularly horses, teaching leadership skills to its members and fund
raising for the community. During my years with 4-H, both as a leader and parent, it
was clear the club could rely on Rich's generosity for anything the club may need
including; opening up his business training room so the club members could practice
their 4-H Public Speaking Presentations, supplying safe, reliable transportation for the
4-H girls to and from club events, assisting in delivering goods raised at various fund
raising events to the respective recipient non-profit organizations or simply making sure
everyone had everything they might need for the next 4-H horse show competition.
Moreover, when the winter months make it difficult for the club to meet at the unheated
Nickel-0 horse farm, Rich has not only opened up his office but his home to the 4-H

 Case 7:17-cr-00058-KMK Document 45-1 Filed 11/05/18 Page 110 of 115

members and their parents so they can have a more suitable space for their meetings
and continue their projects, teambuilding activities and ongoing learning.
In addition to participating in 4-H, many of the girls at Nickel-0 Farms ride in regional,
state and multistate horse show competitions, where they compete both individually and
as a team against riders and teams from other areas. At many of these competitions
volunteers are needed to set up and break down different obstacles for Western trail
riding and English jumping events as well as providing assistance as arena gate
keepers and announcers or simply holding a horse so someone can mount or dismount
safely. At these times Rich is always eager to assist. Moreover, with Rich's
background in the automotive industry, he provides his expertise to make sure that the
horse trailers are safe for travel prior to each horse show and insists on being the last
one out so he can follow the trailers home making sure the kids and their horses get
safely back to the barn. Maybe more importantly, Rich makes it a point to congratulate
every child on their accomplishment regardless of their placement or whether they are
competing with or against his own daughters. He finds the positive in every situation
and strives to instill a sense of pride and success. Indeed, Rich and Lucinda have
taught that sense of teamwork and positive sportsmanship to their daughters which
provides an encouraging and inspiring atmosphere while valuing and respecting their
competitive desire.
On a more personal note several years ago my husband was diagnosed with a
At first, most people assumed he was
on a diet and that's what my husband wanted his family and friends to believe. When
his weight got noticeably low, Rich began to question my husband about his health and
later question me when my husband made light of it, merely saying he was exercising
more and eating better. However, Rich was genuinely concerned and continued to
seek me out to see how my husband was doing and reaffirming his offers of help. Once
I confided in Rich about my husband's condition, he offered to research special doctors
and, knowing my hectic work schedule, take him to appointments if needed. Since my
husband tends to be private, especially concerning his health, Rich always made sure
that at social gatherings, my husband felt comfortable and that his health matters were
not an issue. Over the years we've known Rich, he's always been there for both of us.
My husband's health has been steadily improving and Rich has supported him the
entire time with encouragement, strength and sound advice. He's become a very
special friend and his caring has no bounds.
During the last several years we've watched Rich and Lucinda's girls grow up. They are
fantastic parents, teaching their children a true sense of kindness, sportsmanship and
cooperation. Rich is a person that truly listens, cares what you have to say and has an
uncanny ability to remember almost everything you've discussed so if he can help in the

 Case 7:17-cr-00058-KMK Document 45-1 Filed 11/05/18 Page 111 of 115

future he either does it for you or lets you know he can and will. He's a true gentleman,
and there aren't many left in the world today.
At the time of his sentencing, I hope you will consider all the positive things Rich Brega
has done for so many people, including myself, my husband, our daughter and our 4-H
Youth Club. He is a generous, caring, family man, respected by all who truly know him.
I appreciate your time and consideration.

Very truly yours,

Susan Osgood

 Case 7:17-cr-00058-KMK Document 45-1 Filed 11/05/18 Page 112 of 115

Thomas E Torpey
111111111111.111.11
Stony Point, NY 10980
October 17, 2018
Hon. Kenneth M. Karas
United States District Judge
United States Courthouse
300 Quarropas Street
White Plains, NY 10601
RE:

United States vs Richard Brega

Dear Judge Karas,
I have seen in the newspapers that Richard Brega has been advised of the guilty verdict in the case of
The United States vs Richard Brega. It is my understanding that the sentence to be imposed is, at least
in part, up to your discretion. In that regard I would like to speak about my dealings with Richard and
his company Brega Transport.
My company, The Ducey Agency acted as the insurance agent for Richard personally and for his
companies, Brega Transport, and Brega DOT Maintenance for approximately 15 years.
When Richard first started doing business with The Ducey Agency, he had a small but going concern as a
bus operator and truck repair facility. He ran that business with the highest standards for employee
safety and the wellbeing of his riders and the public. Richard's business had regular inspections by
insurance carriers and all found his business practices to be "Best in Class".
Richard spared no expense in making his workplace safe and pleasant for his employees. He had the
best employee break room, lavatories and other amenities than any other bus or transportation facility I
had ever encountered in my 30 years in the insurance business. Richard provided training and
education for his employees beyond what is required by the State DOT. He employed safety monitors
that followed bus drivers on a random basis to ensure they were providing the best and safest service
possible.
Several years ago, Richard saw an opportunity to expand his business and proved a better service for the
riders of the TOR and TappanZee Express busses. The process of becoming the operator of the TOR and
TappanZee bus operations turned out to be a much longer and more expensive process than Richard
ever anticipated. Yet Richard persevered because he knew he could provide a better, safer and more
cost effective bus operation for the people of Rockland County.
While Richard may have, and it seems he did, make some errors in judgement, I do not believe he made
any of those errors with anything but the best intentions for the people of Rockland County. Richard
always believed he would be able to help the taxpayers and riders of the public bus lines by providing a
cheaper and more reliable bus operation.

 Case 7:17-cr-00058-KMK Document 45-1 Filed 11/05/18 Page 113 of 115

We all make mistakes, and Richard's was a bigger mistake than most of us make. He has suffered
emotionally, financially and within his tight knit family group. I would ask that you consider what
Richard has been through already, the quality bus operation his company provided for the County of
Rockland, and Richard's genuine remorse when you consider the sentencing of Richard.
Very truly yours,

Thomas E. Torpey

 Case 7:17-cr-00058-KMK Document 45-1 Filed 11/05/18 Page 114 of 115

Timothy Ehardt
Blauvelt, NY 10913
October 4, 2018
Honorable
Kenneth M. Karas
United States District Judge
United States Court House
300 Quarropas St.
White Plains, NY 10601
Dear Judge, Karas:
I have known Richard Brega for three years now as he hired me as an Accounting
Intern in May of 2015. During my three-year tenure at Brega Enterprises, which
employees over 300 people, Richard was nothing short of an excellent role model
for myself as a college student whom was eager to learn about the business world.
Richard afforded me an opportunity that many college students never get to have as
I worked side by side with the Accounting/Finance team gaining real world
experience that I could incorporate in the classroom. He didn't just give me a simple
minor task as most people get when they intern, he gave me full access to a major
company's accounting and finances.
As the president of the Enterprise there was never really a reason for Richard and I
to cross paths, as I was merely an intern. However, on a regular basis Richard went
out of his way to check in on me and offer words of encouragement as well as
advice. As Richard was an alumni of my college St. Thomas Aquinas College, I always
felt as if Richard went above and beyond to make sure that I felt comfortable while
working at Brega Enterprises and that I would be prepared to take the next step in
the business world upon graduating.
Additionally, Richard always encouraged me to further my education, which lead to
me receiving my Masters of Business Administration with a concentration in
Finance this past August. His advice and encouragement made me a more
experienced and polished member of the business world and was a key component
in helping me land my next job. Currently I'm working for one of the four largest
accounting firms in the world, Ernst & Young, as a Tax Advisor. Without Richard's
guidance I truly don't think I would be in the position I am today. The respect, trust
and experience I was given while working at Brega Enterprises allowed me to land a
job over individuals who went to the top schools in the Nation. To put it simply,
Richard instilled integrity, compassion and respect in every employee that worked
for Brega.
Sincerely,

Timothy Ehardt

 Case 7:17-cr-00058-KMK Document 45-1 Filed 11/05/18 Page 115 of 115

William Bracciodieta
Garnerville, NY 10923
September 12, 2018
Honorable
Kenneth M. Karas
United States District Judge
United States Court House
300 Quarropas St.
White Plains, NY 10601
Dear Honorable Kenneth M. Karas,
Your Honor,
The aim of this letter is to present the good character of Richard Brega. I met Rich Brega
through a mutual friend a couple years ago, and I can confirm that he is, considerate, loving
and dedicated to the well-being of others. He has helped me through some very difficult
times in my life when I had hit rock bottom and was on the verge of giving up.
. He has inspired me and kept me motivated in trying to reach my
goals and to keep living a clean life. As well he has been a great friend he is a mentor to
lean on. If it wasn't for Rich, I may not be here today. I speak with him almost every day.
He has been an extremely influential and positive person in my life and somebody I hold
very dearly to my heart.
Richard Brega is well-regarded as a person of high integrity and honesty. He has always
conducted himself with common sense and compassion. I am aware of the charges that he
faces but hope that you can take into consideration leniency on him for the person that he is
and not just as "Defendant Richard Brega". This man has a family and a lot of friends who
stand behind him and believe in him. Locking him away is going to affect a ton of people
who need him in their daily lives. Whatever the outcome of the sentencing, I want it to be
known that Richard Brega is an upstanding citizen of this County and sending him to
prison will cause more harm than it will help.
I hope this letter will give you an idea of his good character and help him get a second
chance at life, because he sure has given me one.
Thank you for taking time to read this letter.
Sincerely,

William racciodieta''

 Case 7:17-cr-00058-KMK Document 45-2 Filed 11/05/18 Page 1 of 1

BREGA DOT MAINTENANCE
Valley Cottage, NY 10989
Tel:

Fax:

November 30, 2015

David Gleason
BOCES
.
West Nyack, NY 10994

Dear Mr. Gleason,

Enclosed is a check in the amount.of $11,905.08 representing inadvertently overcharged costs for parts
used by Brega DOT in servicing BOCES vehicles during the time BOCES was our client. Regretfully, this
was an issue within our accounting system that has since been rectified. It was discovered upon an
overhaul of our software processes and procedures. Attached you will see a detailed breakdown of
every transaction completed for your company.
Please feel free to contact me directly if you have additional questions on this matter.

'Sincerely,

Vincent Marzella
Chief Operations Officer

DEFENDANT'S
EXHIBIT

USA0 029894

 Case 7:17-cr-00058-KMK Document 45-3 Filed 11/05/18 Page 1 of 4

REMIT TO:

BREGA D.O.T. MAINTENANCE

ACCOUNTS DUE AND
PAYABLE BY THE
10 th OF THE MONTH

PAGE 1

Valley Cottage, NY 10989
Phone:
Fax: (8

ACCT. NO

CLOSING DATE

ROCKLAND BOCES
ATTN BILLY POPKAVE
WEST NYACK NY 10994
AMOUNT ENCLOSED

PLEASE RETURN THIS PORTION WITH YOUR CHECK
HA
PREVIOUS BALANCE
-

- .

24202

18.00

29MAR13
....

24202
. _

39.00

10JTJ1,13

26160

140CT13

27446

14NOV13

27843

18APR14

29642

23JUN14

30562

23JUN14
- - ...... -

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:

04SEP15
25SEP15

36118

25SEP15

36170

, -

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...... •
.

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0.00

0 . 00

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043.05

FINANCE CHARGES will apply if the new balance is unpaid one month from the closing date of statement. The
"FINANCE CHARGES" are computed by a periodic rate of
1- 5 % per month which is an ANNUAL PERCENTAGE
RATE of
'181
'
applied to the unpaid balance after deducting current payments and/or credits appearing on this
statement from the previous balance.

BREGA D.O.T. MAIN CORP

 Case 7:17-cr-00058-KMK Document 45-3 Filed 11/05/18 Page 2 of 4

REMIT TO:

BREGA D.O.T. MAINTENANCE

PAGE 1

Valley Cottage, NY 10989
Phone:
Fax: (

ACCOUNTS DUE AND
PAYABLE BY THE
°th OF THE MONTH

ACCT. NO

CLOSING DATE

'ROCKLAND BOCES-S.ORANGETOWN
WEST NYACK NY 10994
AMOUNT ENCLOSED

PLEASE RETURN THIS PORTION WITH YOUR CHECK

PREVIOUS BALANCE

FINANCE CHARGES will apply if the new balance is unpaid one month from the closing date of statement. The
"FINANCE CHARGES " are computed by a periodic rate of
.1-..5 % per month which is an ANNUAL PERCENTAGE
RATE of
. applied to the unpaid balance after deducting current payments and/or credits appearing on this
statement from the previous balance.
BREGA

D.O.T. MAIN CORP

 Case 7:17-cr-00058-KMK Document 45-3 Filed 11/05/18 Page 3 of 4

REMIT TO:

BREGA D.O.T. MMNTENAT•ICE

ACCOUNTS DUE AND
PAYABLE BY THE
0 th OF THE MONTH

PAGE 1

Valley Cottage, NY 10989
Phone: (
Fax: (

ACCT. NO

CLOSING DATE

PEARL RIVER
.ROCKLAND BOQES :
WEST NYACK NY 10994
AMOUNT ENCLOSED

PLEASE RETURN THIS PORTION WITH YOUR CHECK
ON
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FINANCE CHARGES will apply if the new balance is unpaid one month from the closing date of statement. The
1 5.% per month which is an ANNUAL PERCENTAGE
"FINANCE CHARGES" are computed by a periodic rate of
RATE of ..*:. 18
applied to the unpaid balance after deducting current payments and/or credits appearing on this
statement from the previous balance.
BREGA D.O.T. MAIN CORP

 Case 7:17-cr-00058-KMK Document 45-3 Filed 11/05/18 Page 4 of 4

REMIT TO:

BREGA D.O.T. MAINTENANCE

ACCOUNTS DUE AND
PAYABLE BY THE
.°t.h OF THE MONTH

PAGE 1

Valley Cottage, NY 10989
Phone:
Fax: (

ACCT. NO

CLOSING DATE

ROCKLAND BOCES-NANUET SCHOOL

WEST NYACK NY 10994
AMOUNT ENCLOSED

PLEASE RETURN THIS PORTION WITH YOUR CHECK
. gHiN .....

ymENTs- cilEp

PREVIOUS BALANCE

..
16APR15

. ..

.. ..... -^,•

2,422.25
0.00

0.00

0.00

,422.25

FINANCE CHARGES will apply if the new balance is unpaid one month from the closing date of statement. The
3.- 5.% per month which is an ANNUAL PERCENTAGE
"FINANCE CHARGES" are computed by a periodic rate of
18
. • applied to the unpaid balance after deducting current payments and/or credits appearing on this
RATE of
statement from the previous balance.

BREGA D.O.T. MAIN CORP