Philadelphia Woman Alleged To Have Fraudulently Applied For Hurricane Funds

Kia Arthur, 41, of Philadelphia, was charged by Information with one count of theft of government funds, announced United States Attorney Zane David Memeger.  According to the Information, the defendant applied for and received Federal Emergency Management Agency (“FEMA”) benefits, alleging that she had been displaced from her home as a result of Hurricane Irene.  The Information alleges that the representations in the defendant’s application to FEMA were false, and that, in fact, she was never displaced from her primary residence.  The defendant’s alleged actions resulted in a loss to the government of approximately $18,413.            

If convicted, the defendant faces a maximum possible sentence of 10 years imprisonment, a three year period of supervised release, restitution to the government of $18,413, a $250,000 fine, and a $100 special assessment.

The case was investigated by the Department of Homeland Security, Office of Inspector General, and is being prosecuted by Special Assistant United States Attorney Amanda R. Reinitz.

Click here to view the indictment

An Information is an accusation.  A defendant is presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty. 

UNITED STATES ATTORNEY'S OFFICE, EASTERN DISTRICTof PENNSYLVANIA
Suite 1250, 615 Chestnut Street, Philadelphia, PA 19106
PATTY HARTMAN, Media Contact, 215-861-8525