September 26, 2022
In July of 2021, the U.S. Department of Justice indicted Koch Foods as part of an investigation into alleged price fixing of the price of Broiler Chickens. At the time, Koch Foods steadfastly denied that it had engaged in any price fixing and refused the government’s approach to reach a settlement. (The company’s full statement is reposted below.)
Over a year later the DOJ filed a motion to dismiss with prejudice its indictment of Koch Foods. The court granted this motion, so all charges have been dismissed against the company and they cannot be refiled. The case is closed.
Koch Foods is grateful for the outcome.
July 29, 2021
To our valued Associates, Customers and Vendors:
Today the U.S. Department of Justice (DOJ) announced an indictment against Koch Foods as part of DOJ’s long-running investigation into alleged price fixing of the price of Broiler Chickens. Koch steadfastly denies that it or any of its employees engaged in price fixing.
During DOJ’s lengthy investigation, it has repeatedly asked Koch to plead guilty, and has suggested that any punishment would potentially be lessened if Koch did that. We are aware that this would certainly be the easiest way to resolve this case. However, we have very carefully considered this option and in good conscience cannot agree.
Koch has seen no evidence to date that it or any of its employees have committed any crime. Pleading guilty, then, is more than a matter of paying a fine or admitting a violation of the law—it is an admission of a violation of Koch’s integrity and core values. We do not take this lightly. While it will require extraordinary resources to have our day in court, Koch feels that it must vigorously defend itself against DOJ’s allegations.
Koch is grateful for your continued support as it navigates this matter.