Hammond Woman Charged

SOUTH BEND – Michelle Seljan, 47, of Hammond, Indiana, was charged by information with theft of federal funds and tax evasion, announced U.S. Attorney Kirsch. 

United States Attorney Kirsch said, “Ms. Seljan betrayed the public trust by using her position with the Hammond Housing Authority for her own private gain.  Citizens deserve honest public servants who will efficiently carry out the mission of their agencies.  Along with our law enforcement partners, we will continue to investigate and prosecute public corruption across the Northern District of Indiana.”

According to documents in this case, from 2013 through 2016, Ms. Seljan embezzled approximately $633,628 from the Hammond Housing Authority.  Ms. Seljan had funds sent from the Hammond Housing Authority to bank accounts she created and made those transactions appear to be legitimate housing assistance recipient payments.  During the same time period, Seljan misreported her income, evading more than $200,000 in federal taxes.

Along with this Information, a plea agreement relating to the theft of federal funds and tax evasion has been filed. 

This case was being investigated by the United States Department of Housing and Urban Development, Office of Inspector General, and the Internal Revenue Service, Criminal Investigation Division.  This case will be handled by Assistant U.S. Attorney Jesse Barrett.

The United States Attorney's Office emphasized that an Information is merely an allegation and that all persons charged are presumed innocent until, and unless, proven guilty in court.

If convicted in court, any specific sentence to be imposed will be determined by the judge after a consideration of federal sentencing statutes and the Federal Sentencing Guidelines.

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