Investigates

CareerSource NEFL president acknowledges Action News Jax investigation to staff in email

On Wednesday, Action News Jax showed you how allegations made by a former CareerSource Northeast Florida employee, Faron Miles, has launched an investigation into the agency's finances.

“What we're doing is intentional, we're defrauding the government. We're falsely signing our names to something that we know is wrong and that's got to stop,” Miles said.

Miles has now officially retired as district director of CareerSource Northeast Florida but not before speaking exclusively to Action News Jax about what he calls “corruption” by his former employer.

“It's a big allegation to say that they're defrauding the federal government,” Action News Jax reporter Lorena Inclán said.

“Well it is, but you know, it's true,” Miles said.

Miles’ allegations of fraud and misappropriation of taxpayer money have launched an investigation by the Florida Department of Economic Opportunity Office of Inspector General.

In 2011, its Central Florida office, formerly known as WorkForce, was also investigated after allegations of misspending over the purchase of red capes for a marketing campaign.

An audit later found problems with how it spent federal money.

In 2014, the nonprofit changed its name from WorkForce to CareerSource as part of a statewide rebranding.

In an internal email obtained by Action News Jax, the CEO of CareerSource Northeast Florida Bruce Ferguson addressed staff following our report.

"I know that many of you have seen or been informed about Faron Miles' interview with Action News Jax. I understand these kind of allegations can be unsettling and distracting while you're trying to focus on your important work.
 
"The statement we made to the reporter is the best response we can make to you as well - We take matters of fiscal responsibility very seriously and our organization has a long record of clean financial monitoring reports and audits. This employee has also made allegations to the Inspector General of the Department of Economic Opportunity. Their office is investigating, and we are cooperating fully with the investigation. Until that process is complete, we will not be making a statement on the issue.
 
"Our board is informed of the situation and they have expressed their support and confidence that the investigation will determine the facts of the matter. We welcome the chance to let the IG do its work and reach a decision that settles the matter. The IG findings will be shared publicly so everyone can understand what the outcome was and we can fully focus on our mission of serving jobseekers and businesses. 
 
"Thank you for all the good work you do each and every day."

A spokesperson with CareerSource Northeast Florida said they will not be making any statements until after the investigation has been completed.