Kenner Woman Pleads Guilty To FEMA Fraud

NEW ORLEANS – Acting U.S. Michael M. Simpson announced that SONJA LEE (“LEE”), age 49, pled guilty on July 29, 2025, to filing a false claim with the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA), in violation of Title 18, United States Code, Section 287.

According to the indictment, LEE, filed a false claim with FEMA for financial assistance alleging that, after Hurricane Ida, her primary residence and personal property were damaged, knowing that her claim was false.

At sentencing, LEE faces up to five years’ imprisonment, up to a $250,000 fine, up to three years of supervised release, and a mandatory $100 special assessment fee. LEE also will be ordered to pay restitution to FEMA.

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. Assistant United States Attorney Tiwana Wright of the Financial Crimes Unit handled the prosecution.

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