A Kenner woman has pleaded guilty to filing a false claim with the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) following Hurricane Ida. The U.S. Attorney’s Office for the Eastern District of Louisiana announced that Sonja Lee, 49, entered her plea on July 29, 2025.
According to the indictment, Lee submitted a fraudulent claim for financial assistance to FEMA by stating that her primary residence and personal property were damaged during Hurricane Ida, despite knowing this information was false.
At sentencing, Lee could face up to five years in prison, a fine of up to $250,000, up to three years of supervised release, and a mandatory $100 special assessment fee. She will also be required to pay restitution to FEMA.
Acting U.S. Attorney Michael M. Simpson stated: “Acting U.S. Attorney Michael M. Simpson praised the work of the United States Department of Homeland Security, Office of Inspector General in investigating this matter.” The case was prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Tiwana Wright from the Financial Crimes Unit.
