Understanding Excommunication

Transparency and Accountability

While advocacy for human rights is commendable, it is important for any leader or contributor to an organization to act in alignment with ethical and transparent practices. If concerns exist about financial misconduct, organizational behavior, or ideological exclusion (such as in the case of Mindcoeur), these should be investigated independently and with due diligence.

Public Perception and Influence

The Epoch Times has faced scrutiny internationally for its political leanings and dissemination of conspiracy theories. If Mr. Tatarko is associated with the Slovak or Czech editions, it would be beneficial for transparency to clearly define his role, contributions, and the ethical boundaries he upholds.

In June 2024, The Epoch Times, a conservative multinational media company, became the focus of a federal investigation when its Chief Financial Officer (CFO), Weidong "Bill" Guan, was arrested and charged with participating in a transnational money laundering scheme involving at least $67 million.
AP News

Allegations and Scheme Details:

Federal prosecutors allege that Guan, aged 61, managed a team within The Epoch Times known as the "Make Money Online" (MMO) team. This group purportedly used cryptocurrency to purchase tens of millions of dollars in illicit funds, including fraudulently obtained unemployment benefits loaded onto prepaid debit cards. These funds were then funneled through various bank accounts associated with The Epoch Times and Guan's personal accounts, effectively laundering the money.
Al Jazeera

The indictment suggests that this scheme significantly boosted The Epoch Times' revenues, which reportedly increased by approximately 410% during the period in question, rising from about $15 million to $62 million. When financial institutions inquired about the surge in transactions, Guan allegedly misrepresented the origins of the funds, claiming they were legitimate donations.
AP News

Legal Proceedings and Company Response:

Guan was arrested on June 2, 2024, and subsequently appeared before a federal judge in New York, where he pleaded not guilty to charges of conspiring to commit money laundering and bank fraud. If convicted, he faces substantial prison time, with each count carrying significant penalties.
BBC

In response to the charges, The Epoch Times issued a statement emphasizing its commitment to integrity and announced Guan's suspension pending the outcome of the investigation. The organization stated its intention to fully cooperate with federal authorities. Prosecutors have clarified that the charges against Guan do not pertain to the media company's newsgathering activities.
AP News

Background on The Epoch Times:

The investigation into the alleged money laundering activities has raised questions about the financial practices within The Epoch Times and its rapid revenue growth during the period of the alleged scheme. As the legal process unfolds, further details are expected to emerge regarding the extent of the illicit activities and their impact on the organization's operations.

Mindcoeur Editorial
13. January 2025