Crystal Jean Boze, Federal Grant Fraud, Alaska 2023

A shocking case of federal grant fraud has come to light in Wasilla, Alaska. Crystal Jean Boze, 39, was sentenced to six months community confinement, five years probation, and 240 hours of community service for her role in a $72,560 grant fraud scheme.

The crimes took place between February 2013 and June 2013, when Boze, the owner of Green Winter Farms LLC, knowingly made and presented three false and fraudulent claims to the USDA seeking payment of grant funds. The claims were backed by fake purchase invoices, which were used to obtain a total of $48,610 in USDA grant funds.

Boze was also found to have caused a $12,805 loss to a small Colorado vendor from which she obtained grant funds to purchase a greenhouse, but failed to pay. As part of her sentence, Boze must pay full restitution, plus post-judgment interest, to both USDA and the Colorado vendor.

The case was investigated by the Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI) and the USDA. U.S. Attorney Karen L. Loeffler commended the agencies for their work on the case.

Boze's company, Green Winter Farms LLC, was awarded a $72,103 grant by the USDA Natural Resources Conservation Service in 2012, and a $49,689 grant by USDA Rural Development in 2013. The grants required Boze to pay for items in advance, then seek reimbursement from USDA. However, despite being explicitly told that advances of grant funds were not permitted, Boze made and presented three false and fraudulent claims to USDA seeking payment of grant funds.

Boze's sentence includes six months community confinement, five years probation, and 240 hours of community service. She must also pay full restitution, plus post-judgment interest, to both USDA and the Colorado vendor. The total amount of restitution is $61,415.

The case highlights the importance of accountability in government grant programs. The USDA relies on the integrity of grantees like Boze to ensure that taxpayer dollars are used for their intended purpose. Boze's actions not only caused financial loss but also undermined the trust in the grant program.

The sentencing of Crystal Jean Boze serves as a reminder that federal grant fraud will not be tolerated. The authorities will continue to investigate and prosecute those who abuse the system for personal gain.

Source: https://www.justice.gov/usao-ak/pr/wasilla-woman-sentenced-six-months-community-confinement-five-years-probation-and-240