Joshua D. Hurwit U.S. Attorney | U.S. Attorney for the District of Idaho
Tanisha Gray, a 39-year-old resident of Houston, Texas, has pleaded guilty to wire fraud, as announced by Acting U.S. Attorney Justin Whatcott. Gray's fraudulent activities involved obtaining emergency rental assistance from the Idaho Housing and Finance Association (IHFA) and other states' housing programs. These programs were designed to support individuals unable to pay rent due to financial hardships related to the COVID-19 pandemic.
The Emergency Rental Assistance (ERA) program was established by Congress in early 2021 to aid low-income households with costs related to rent and utilities during the pandemic. IHFA administered this program in Idaho, distributing federal funds for housing assistance to eligible renters who faced financial difficulties due to or during the pandemic.
Court records reveal that between 2022 and 2023, Gray submitted false applications for rental assistance through IHFA and similar programs in other states. She falsely identified herself as a landlord for various properties and provided fraudulent documentation such as fictitious leases and property management agreements. Through these deceptive actions, Gray obtained over $62,000 in fraud proceeds.
Gray is scheduled for sentencing on May 14, 2025, before Senior U.S. District Judge B. Lynn Winmill. The charge carries a potential sentence of up to 20 years in federal prison, a fine of up to $250,000, and three years of supervised release.
Acting U.S. Attorney Whatcott praised the investigative work done by the Boise Police Department and the United States Secret Service, along with the support from the Idaho Housing and Finance Association that led to Gray's charges. Assistant U.S Attorney Brittney Campbell is handling the prosecution.
