WASHINGTON, March 18, 2008 - The U.S. Department of Agriculture's Grain Inspection, Packers and Stockyards Administration (GIPSA) has found evidence that Peter J. Congelosi (Congelosi), Monticello, New York, operated as a dealer without maintaining adequate bond coverage as required by the Packers and Stockyards (P&S) Act.

On January 22, 2008, GIPSA filed a complaint against Congelosi. If the allegations are admitted, or proven in an oral hearing, Congelosi may be ordered to cease and desist from violating the P&S Act, suspended and assessed a civil penalty.

Congelosi is currently registered as a dealer and as a market agency to buy livestock in commerce on a commission basis and buys and sells livestock in commerce for his own account.

The P&S Act is a fair trade practice and payment protection law that promotes fair and competitive marketing environments for the livestock, meat, and poultry industries.

#

Catherine M. Grasso 202-720-7201