Pennsylvania consultant Charles Sowell partnered with former ICE acting director Tom Homan in 2021, developing a business relationship. Sowell hired Homan as a consultant for his firm, SE&M Solutions, which advised companies seeking government contracts. Homan was also involved with Sowell's foundation, Border911. Donald Trump announced Homan would oversee his immigration crackdown, likely involving significant private sector contracts. Homan stated he would recuse himself from contracting decisions upon returning to government as border czar. However, multiple industry executives claim Sowell leveraged his connection to Homan to attract clients seeking immigration detention contracts. Homan is also under scrutiny for a reported FBI sting operation. Ethics experts express concern that Homan's business ties with Sowell could compromise the integrity of the contracting process. Sowell and Homan's senior advisor, Mark Hall, reportedly visited one of Sowell's clients, Industrial Tent Systems, to discuss detention camp plans. Hall was also paid by Sowell's firm. Federal ethics rules require officials to avoid activities that could benefit former business associates. Homan's disclosures indicate Sowell's firm paid him between 2023 and early 2025. Sowell states their financial relationship ended in late 2024.