Public Integrity Task Force targets Northern Mariana Islands officials in corruption probe

Three Northern Mariana Islands officials were charged with corruption and misuse of public funds on August 21, 2025. Lieutenant Governor Dennis Mendiola and Department of Fire and Emergency Medical Response official Justin Paul Mizutani face misconduct and theft charges for transportation and theft of government Toyotas. Additionally, Homeland Security and Emergency Management (HSEM) official Joey Dela Cruz faces a misconduct charge. Corruption Prosecutor Olga Kelley of the Public Integrity Task Force filed the charges.

Superior Court Clerk Patrick Diaz issued a penal summons for the three officials on August 21. They will appear before Presiding Judge Roberto C. Naraja at 9 am on September 15. The failure to appear in court may result in arrest warrants.

While serving as HSEM special assistant in 2022, Mendiola allegedly “authorized the transport of a private 2003 Toyota Tacoma from Saipan to Rota on a chartered vessel, costing the government $3,135.81.” Additionally, he is accused of using $3,658 of public funds to steal a rental 2019 Toyota valued at $20,000. Lastly, Mendiola allegedly used the HSEM budget to rent six vehicles. This“[left] the government with an outstanding debt of $61,290.”

Mizutani, an official of HSEM’s special operations, is accused of aiding the transport of the rented 2019 Toyota. Mendiola faces a potential 40 years in jail if convicted, while Mizutani faces 20 years.

Meanwhile, Dela Cruz, serving as HSEM special assistant, faces a misconduct charge. The court document states “that between Oct. 4, 2022, and April 24, 2023, he rented four vehicles without budget approval or payment, resulting in a $20,415 debt to the government.”

Franklin Babaueta, an HSEM special assistant, first raised public concern.. He was taking a snap audit of HSEM resources when he noticed multiple missing vehicles.

In a press release on August 21, Mendiola maintains his innocence. He claims “the allegations against [him] are without merit.” In the meantime, he pledges to “remain steadfast in serving the people of the commonwealth with dedication and integrity.” Similarly, Northern Mariana Islands Governor David M. Apatang places his “full faith and trust in the independent adjudication process,” and promises the work of the administration will not be interrupted.
The public integrity task force has not disclosed if there will be future investigations and charges. However, Mendiola, Mizutani, and Dela Cruz all remain innocent until proven guilty. Court proceedings and the release of more public information will begin on September 15.