Muneerah Abdullah, a 45-year-old resident of Chester, Pennsylvania, has been indicted by a federal grand jury on six counts of wire fraud. The charges relate to the fraudulent acquisition of unemployment benefits linked to COVID-19 emergency relief funds. The indictment was announced by the United States Attorney’s Office for the Middle District of Pennsylvania.
Acting U.S. Attorney John C. Gurganus stated that from April 2020 to October 2020, Abdullah allegedly filed Pandemic Unemployment Assistance (PUA) claims for herself and others who were not eligible, including inmates. The scheme reportedly involved false claims about unemployment due to COVID-19, fabricated employment or wage history, and untruthful statements regarding job search activities. Abdullah is also accused of receiving kickbacks for filing these fraudulent claims using another person's information.
The PUA program was established under the March 2020 CARES Act to support individuals not qualified for regular unemployment compensation or extended benefits during the pandemic.
The investigation was conducted by the Office of the Inspector General and the Department of Labor. Assistant United States Attorney Alisan V. Martin is handling the prosecution.
If found guilty, sentencing will be determined by a judge based on federal sentencing statutes and guidelines. Wire fraud carries a maximum penalty of 20 years in prison per charge, along with potential fines and supervised release post-imprisonment.
It is important to note that indictments are allegations; all defendants are presumed innocent until proven guilty in court.
In response to pandemic-related fraud, the Attorney General formed the COVID-19 Fraud Enforcement Task Force on May 17, 2021. This task force coordinates efforts across government agencies to combat fraud related to pandemic relief programs through various strategies such as sharing information and resources.
For more details on how the Department of Justice is addressing pandemic-related issues or to report suspected fraud involving COVID-19 relief funds, visit their website or contact their hotline.