Jailhouse Scam: PA Inmates Bilked $220K in Pandemic Funds

PHILADELPHIA, PA – A brazen scheme to siphon off federal aid meant for those struggling during the pandemic has landed two Pennsylvania men in the crosshairs of federal prosecutors. Alexander Daravina, 38, of Dallas, Pennsylvania, and Moses Benabe, 25, of Philadelphia, face serious charges after allegedly defrauding the Pandemic Unemployment Assistance (PUA) program of at least $218,570. The duo are accused of exploiting a system designed to help, instead lining their pockets with stolen funds.

The PUA program, a key component of the Coronavirus Aid, Relief, and Economic Security (CARES) Act enacted in March 2020, extended a lifeline to those ineligible for traditional unemployment benefits. Benefits were disbursed through electronic funds transfer, checks, or debit cards. But according to the indictment, Daravina, while serving time at State Correctional Institution Phoenix (SCI Phoenix), saw an opportunity – and exploited it with ruthless efficiency.

From approximately July 2020 through September 2020, Daravina allegedly obtained the personal identification information (PII) – names, dates of birth, and Social Security numbers – of dozens of individuals, including fellow inmates at SCI Phoenix. This wasn’t a simple data breach; it was an inside job. He then allegedly shared this stolen data with Benabe and others, directing them to file fraudulent PUA claims on behalf of these individuals, fully aware they weren’t entitled to the benefits.

Benabe, according to the indictment, acted as the point man on the outside. He allegedly used the stolen PII, including information from dozens of SCI Phoenix inmates, to submit the fraudulent applications. Once approved, the resulting debit cards were shipped to addresses controlled by the conspiracy. Benabe and his accomplices then allegedly hit the ATMs, withdrawing cash and making purchases with the ill-gotten gains. It’s a textbook case of exploiting a crisis for personal profit.

If convicted, both Alexander Daravina and Moses Benabe each face a staggering maximum sentence of 161 years imprisonment, with a mandatory minimum of two years, three years of supervised release, and a hefty $3.75 million fine. They are charged with conspiracy to commit an offense against the United States, seven counts of wire fraud, and seven counts of aggravated identity theft – charges that carry serious weight.

The investigation was spearheaded by the FBI and the Department of Labor Office of Inspector General, with prosecution led by Assistant United States Attorney Mark Dubnoff. It’s a reminder that even during a national crisis, those who prey on the system will be held accountable. It is important to remember that the charges contained in the indictment are merely accusations, and both defendants are presumed innocent until proven guilty in a court of law.