In this series, we’re taking a closer look at the controversy surrounding a group led by Avraham Cohen, formerly known by two other names: Rama Behera, and Samanta Roy.

For more than 30 years, the secrecy surrounding this group has led to much speculation. Some are also concerned about the financial impact on the community; Cohen has invested millions in local businesses, left some buildings vacant, and has fallen behind in taxes and other payments.

Even more recently, one of the hotels he owns is drawing complaints and protests because it's the site of private adult parties hosted by a swingers group called ‘Share Your Secrets’.

NewsChannel 7 was asked to look into these parties at the Shawano Best Western Motel. We captured what was happening at one of their ‘private parties’ on our hidden cameras.

Shawano Police Chief Ed Whealon says, despite the controversy over what many view as immoral, such parties don't necessarily violate any laws. "There is a statute on the books called adultery”, Whealon said. “But to enforce that statute, you have to have a victim or a party to step forward and file a complaint with law enforcement."

However, in each of the last few meetings citations have been issued, including serving alcohol past hours and refusal to allow officers on the premises.

There's no question these parties are causing a stir in the community. And Mike Schuler, Town Chairman in nearby Wescott, says their connection to Avraham Cohen is concerning. "It's very difficult to believe that a person that has a religion, that preaches on weekends and allows his hotel to be used for what it's used for once a month”, said Schuler. “I don't understand."

But Alan Eisenberg, an attorney for Avraham Cohen, says Cohen is not involved. "It's of utterly no significance”, said Eisenberg. “And one thing's for sure: Avraham Cohen has absolutely nothing to do with it. He doesn't even know about it. It has not been discussed with him. I have not spoken to him about it."

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