Michigan Woman Sentenced to Prison as Trump Administration and FEMA Continue Crack Down on Disaster Assistance Fraud

Anyone who defrauds American taxpayers will face the consequences

WASHINGTON - Earlier this month, a Michigan woman was sentenced to six months in prison after a jury convicted her of major disaster fraud. After Hurricane Ian made landfall in September 2022, she fraudulently claimed FEMA disaster benefits for her vacation home in Florida, stating it was her primary residence.

As a result of the fraud, she received nearly $50,000 in cash, including money that was meant for rent and emergency living expenses for Hurricane Ian survivors. Bank, airline and casino records established that the woman was a "snowbird" who only spent the winters in Florida. FEMA Individual Assistance is only authorized for primary residences affected by disasters; it is not authorized to be used for secondary or vacation residences.

"This individual who stole disaster assistance funds meant for people displaced by Hurricane Ian serves as a clear example that those who commit fraud will be investigated, prosecuted and held accountable," said FEMA Administrator Cameron Hamilton. "Under President Trump's leadership, those who lie to exploit disaster programs for personal gain will be met with consequences."

The Trump Administration continues to take aggressive action to root out fraud and protect taxpayer dollars, ensuring disaster assistance only reaches those who truly need it. As part of this commitment, FEMA and the Department of Homeland Security (DHS) are working with the United States Department of Justice (DOJ) and federal and local partners to investigate fraud and hold offenders accountable.

Taking funds meant for disaster survivors is a serious crime. In Fiscal Year 2025, FEMA investigated over 2,000 fraud cases. The agency refers suspected fraud in its Individual Assistance program to the DHS Office of Inspector General (OIG) and other law enforcement partners for investigation and potential prosecution, including cases involving organized criminal activity. 

President Trump's Executive Order 14395 established the Task Force to Eliminate Fraud, bringing together federal agencies to coordinate a national strategy to stop fraud, waste and abuse in federal benefit programs. FEMA is fully engaged in strengthening eligibility verification, enhancing pre-payment controls and ensuring disaster assistance is delivered quickly and securely to eligible survivors.