Florida agency gave Food for the Poor all-clear after investigation

Authorities in California may have slapped a cease and desist order on Food for the Poor, but in Florida the Coconut Creek charity’s state overseer has found no foul play.

The charity is accused of inflating values of donated pharmaceuticals on its tax filings, according to an order issued by Xavier Becerra, attorney general in California.

In Florida, the agency that oversees charities and nonprofits is the Department of Agriculture and Consumer Services, headed by Commissioner Adam Putnam.

“We initiated an investigation into Food For the Poor Inc., and upon review, we determined that there is no violation of [ state law],” a spokeswoman for Putnam’s office said Friday.

Florida Attorney General Pam Bondi’s office, however, is doing its own evaluation.

“We are reviewing this matter for possible violations of Florida’s Deceptive and Unfair Trade Practices Act,” a spokeswoman said Friday morning.

The charity maintains no wrongdoing and has appealed the California order.

Becerra is seeking to revoke Food for the Poor’s charity status and is demanding $1,088,000 in penalties.

The attorney general in California has oversight because Food for the Poor solicits donations from Californians.