News Summary
The plumbing company Orduna Plumbing faces serious accusations for employing hundreds of undocumented immigrants across six states, amounting to $74 million in work. The owners, Moises and Raquel Orduna-Rios, have been arrested on multiple charges including money laundering and harboring unauthorized aliens. This scandal raises urgent questions about the ethics and practices within the home remodeling sector, impacting contractors and homeowners alike.
Shocking Plumbing Scandal Rocks Home Remodeling Industry
In a jaw-dropping twist of fate, the leaders of a well-known plumbing company based in Plymouth Township have found themselves under serious scrutiny. Moises and Raquel Orduna-Rios, the faces behind Orduna Plumbing, have been arrested on allegations of employing hundreds of undocumented immigrants for construction work across six states, with a shocking value of work amounting to $74 million between 2020 and 2023.
A Closer Look at the Charges
The federal Justice Department has dropped the hammer, announcing the serious charges against the Orduna-Rios couple, who serve as the president and treasurer/secretary of their company. These charges include transporting and harboring unauthorized aliens, employing unauthorized immigrants, money laundering, and conspiracy. If found guilty, they could be staring down the barrel of a 10-year prison sentence and hefty fines of up to $3,000 for each unauthorized worker.
The Scope of the Scheme
Orduna Plumbing has been known for its extensive range of services, and in just a decade since its formation, it has completed more than 500 projects. These projects included not just plumbing services but also comprehensive remodeling projects and essential fire-suppression installations. However, beneath this seemingly reputable facade lies a troubling reality. Authorities claim that the plumbing company employed approximately 253 individuals, with only six confirmed to be legally allowed to work in the U.S.
Between 2020 and 2025, this investigation has already led to the arrests of 23 employees in states including New York and North Carolina. The way the Orduna-Rios couple allegedly managed their workforce is nothing short of alarming. WhatsApp messages revealed that they provided guidance to their employees on how to evade law enforcement, suggested moving to different housing locations, and even recommended precautions to avoid detection. This means that the workers were not only caught in a legal bind but were also living under constant fear.
Living Conditions in Question
The investigation further uncovered that some workers’ passports were allegedly taken away and they were forced to live in overcrowded conditions. During a raid in Rochester, N.Y., authorities discovered that nine undocumented workers were residing in less than ideal conditions, even lacking basic plumbing facilities. Reports indicated that they were advised by Moises Orduna-Rios to follow speed limits and limit unnecessary errands to steer clear of any law enforcement notice.
A Ripple Effect Throughout the Industry
The home remodeling and construction industry is no stranger to challenges, but this revelation presents a shakeup that many might not have seen coming. It raises questions about the hiring practices of contractors and the need for transparency in a field vital to American homes. As homeowners embark on remodeling and renovation projects, the actions of a few can cast a shadow over the hard work of many.
Those planning their next home improvement can only hope that future renovations are conducted by responsible and ethical companies. The spotlight is on the home remodeling segment, and the implications of this scandal could change the landscape of how business is done in the trade.
Looking to the Future
As the court proceedings unfold, the focus will undoubtedly remain on the impacts of this case within the plumbing and remodeling industry. Homeowners deserve peace of mind, knowing the companies they hire are trustworthy and compliant with the law. The Orduna-Rios couple’s situation is a stark reminder of the importance of ethical practices in home renovation projects, prompting all involved in this industry to reflect on their own commitments to legality and responsibility.
This unfolding story serves as a cautionary tale for both industry players and homeowners alike. Moving forward, we must all stay alert to ensure our homes are in the hands of those who respect the laws designed to protect us all.
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Additional Resources
- Crain’s Detroit Business: Orduna Plumbing Leaders Charged
- Detroit News: Feds Couple Reaped $74M by Employing Illegal Immigrants
- C & G News: Plumbing Techs of Michigan
- Google Search: Plumbing Scandal 2025
- Wikipedia: Immigration and Illegal Immigration in the United States
Author: STAFF HERE DETROITMI WRITER
DETROIT STAFF WRITER The DETROIT STAFF WRITER represents the experienced team at HEREDetroitMI.com, your go-to source for actionable local news and information in Detroit, Wayne County, and beyond. Specializing in "news you can use," we cover essential topics like product reviews for personal and business needs, local business directories, politics, real estate trends, neighborhood insights, and state news affecting the area—with deep expertise drawn from years of dedicated reporting and strong community input, including local press releases and business updates. We deliver top reporting on high-value events such as Movement Electronic Music Festival, Detroit Grand Prix, and America's Thanksgiving Parade. Our coverage extends to key organizations like the Detroit Regional Chamber and Focus HOPE, plus leading businesses in automotive and healthcare that power the local economy such as General Motors, Ford Motor Company, and Henry Ford Health. As part of the broader HERE network, including HEREGrandRapids.com, HERENorthville.com, HERENovi.com, and HEREPlymouth.com, we provide comprehensive, credible insights into Michigan's dynamic landscape.
