Non-Profit Nightmare: Shocking Allegations of Free Labor and Deception Unfold!

HARRISBURG, PA — Kevin D. Kolb, founder and operator of the Berks County-based non-profit Sick Recovery, is facing serious charges following an investigation by the Office of Attorney General and the Pennsylvania State Police. The investigative findings, supported by the 52nd Statewide Investigating Grand Jury, suggest that Kolb misrepresented his organization, allegedly turning it into a source of free labor under the guise of a recovery program for men with substance abuse issues.

Kolb is accused of recruiting individuals for a live-in program, promising treatment and healthy recovery alternatives. However, the investigation claims that participants were required to relinquish personal belongings such as identification, money, and cell phones, while being barred from family contact. Allegedly, they were subjected to unpaid construction work without any legitimate means of leaving the program.

On Thursday, Kolb was charged with multiple offenses, including involuntary servitude, theft by unlawful taking, tax evasion, and insurance fraud. He was rooted with bail set at $250,000 unsecured. His wife, Krista Kolb, faces charges of unsworn falsification to authorities, tampering with public records, construction workplace misclassification, and insurance fraud. Her bail was set at $25,000 unsecured. Kevin’s brother, Scott Kolb, is charged with construction workplace misclassification for work associated with his construction company.

Attorney General Michelle Henry stated, “A comprehensive investigation revealed a disturbing course of conduct allegedly perpetrated by someone who posed as a helper offering a new lifestyle to people dealing with substance abuse.” Pennsylvania State Police Captain James Cuttitta added, highlighting the betrayal of trust, “These charges involve a course of conduct by someone who was supposed to be improving the lives of others, not criminally taking advantage of those seeking treatment and help.”

Kolb’s organization, marketed under various names including Soul Recovery Academy and Soul Constructors, purported to offer vocational training and a focus on motocross racing. However, the investigation suggests the absence of formal training, with participants instead being subjected to arduous work at worksites. Despite operating as a for-profit construction business under Soul Constructors, the organization maintained a non-profit status, allegedly using donations, grants, and construction payments for personal expenses.

Participants reportedly had to resort to clandestine escapes, often leaving the program in the middle of the night. The prosecution will be led by Chief Deputy Attorney General Brian Zarallo and Deputy Attorney General Lisa Eisenberg. It is crucial to note that all charges are allegations at this stage, and the defendants are presumed innocent until proven guilty in court.

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