January 1, Florida Democrat Hit With FEMA Theft Charges

Wyatt’s Take

• A Florida Democrat is facing charges for allegedly stealing disaster funds.
• The money was reportedly funneled into a political campaign and used personally.
• Prosecutors say more charges could mean long prison sentences if convicted.

Florida Rep. Sheila Cherfilus-McCormick stands accused of taking $5 million in FEMA disaster relief money along with her brother and others. A grand jury indictment says they laundered the funds and some of it supported her 2021 congressional run.

According to federal prosecutors, the scheme started at the family’s health-care business, where FEMA sent $5 million in error during a COVID-19 contract. The indictment claims the money was hidden in different accounts and split among the accused.

“Using disaster relief funds for self-enrichment is a particularly selfish, cynical crime,” said Attorney General Pam Bondi. “No one is above the law, least of all powerful people who rob taxpayers for personal gain. We will follow the facts in this case and deliver justice.”

The indictment also charges Cherfilus-McCormick and her tax preparer with plotting to file a false tax return.

If found guilty, the Florida lawmaker faces up to 53 years in prison. Her brother faces up to 35 years, and the tax preparer could get up to 33 years.

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Wyatt Matters

When politicians use disaster funds for personal gain, it’s hard-working folks across Middle America who lose the most. That’s why accountability and honesty should never take a back seat in government.

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