Tanisha Gray, a 39-year-old resident of Houston, Texas, has admitted to wire fraud charges. Acting U.S. Attorney Justin Whatcott announced that Gray fraudulently obtained emergency rental assistance from the Idaho Housing and Finance Association (IHFA) and other states' housing programs designed for individuals facing financial hardship due to the COVID-19 pandemic.
The Emergency Rental Assistance (ERA) program was established by Congress in early 2021 to aid low-income households with rent, utilities, and other housing expenses during the pandemic. IHFA administered this program in Idaho using federal funds to support eligible renters who had experienced financial difficulties related to or during the pandemic. Assistance included covering rental arrears and up to three months of future rent, along with utility assistance if requested.
Court records indicate that between 2022 and 2023, Gray submitted false applications to IHFA and other programs, misrepresenting herself as a landlord for various properties. She provided fraudulent documents such as fictitious leases and property management agreements. This scheme allowed her to collect over $62,000 in fraudulent proceeds from these emergency rental assistance programs.
Senior U.S. District Judge B. Lynn Winmill is scheduled to sentence Gray on May 14, 2025. The charge carries a potential penalty of up to 20 years in federal prison, a maximum fine of $250,000, and up to three years of supervised release.
Acting U.S. Attorney Whatcott praised the Boise Police Department and the United States Secret Service for their investigative work leading to these charges. He also acknowledged the support from the Idaho Housing and Finance Association. Assistant U.S Attorney Brittney Campbell is handling the prosecution of this case.