E. Martin Estrada, U.S. Attorney | U.S. Attorney's Office for the Central District of California
Three individuals have been charged with fraudulently seeking federal disaster relief funds by falsely claiming their properties were damaged by the Eaton and Palisades wildfires, according to an announcement from the Justice Department. The defendants, two from Southern California and one from Texas, were arrested this week for allegedly defrauding the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA).
“These defendants allegedly made false and fraudulent claims to FEMA for emergency benefits related to wildfires that devastated Los Angeles County two months ago,” stated Acting United States Attorney Joseph McNally. He noted that these actions deprived actual wildfire victims of necessary disaster-relief funds.
Matthew Brackett, Special Agent in Charge of DHS OIG's Los Angeles Field Office, emphasized ongoing efforts to protect government assistance programs: “The Department of Homeland Security, Office of Inspector General, along with our law enforcement partners... will continue to investigate anyone who attempts to defraud FEMA.”
Homeland Security Investigations (HSI) Los Angeles Acting Special Agent in Charge John Pasciucco urged public vigilance: “Criminals will seize every opportunity to defraud the government... We strongly urge the public to report any suspicious activity related to disaster relief claims.”
Special Agent in Charge Tyler Hatcher of IRS Criminal Investigation highlighted collaboration among agencies: “IRS Criminal Investigation stands proudly with our law enforcement partners to prevent and deter this sort of fraud.”
The alleged fraudulent activities followed the Eaton and Palisades fires that began on January 7. These fires burned nearly 60,000 acres, destroyed over 16,000 structures, and resulted in 29 deaths. A Major Disaster Declaration led FEMA to offer various forms of relief.
In "United States v. Turner," Joyce Turner from Rosharon, Texas is accused of submitting a fraudulent application claiming her home was destroyed in the Eaton fire. She allegedly forged a lease and received over $25,000 from FEMA due to these submissions. Turner has a history of similar offenses related to other disasters.
"United States v. Barnes" involves Tyrone D. Barnes Jr., who is accused of filing a false claim for an Altadena property he did not own or have permission from the owners. He is set for an initial court appearance in Los Angeles.
Hedeshia Robertson is charged in "United States v. Robertson" with filing a fraudulent application for benefits related to a residence she had no connection with in Pacific Palisades. She allegedly obtained nearly $24,899 through her actions.
All defendants are presumed innocent until proven guilty beyond a reasonable doubt in court. The charges carry potential maximum sentences ranging up to 30 years in federal prison.
For reporting fraud related to FEMA disaster-relief public assistance, contact DHS-OIG at (800) 323-8603 or Homeland Security's tip line at (866) 347-2423.
