Bronx, NY – Elvin German, a New York resident, is facing federal charges after allegedly pilfering over $1.4 million in Covid-19 unemployment benefits through a brazen scheme involving the stolen identities of more than 250 unsuspecting individuals. German was arrested March 16, 2021, and is expected to appear before United States Magistrate Judge Sarah L. Cave.
According to federal prosecutors, German systematically filed fraudulent unemployment claims with the New York Department of Labor (NY DOL) from May 2020 through March 2021. He allegedly used names and social security numbers obtained illegally, turning the pandemic relief system into his personal ATM. The scale of the fraud was significant, exceeding $1.4 million in illicit gains.
What tripped up German, authorities say, wasn’t sophisticated encryption or a complex network, but a consistent lack of operational security. Investigators noticed a pattern: applications consistently originated from the same internet protocol (IP) address. More damningly, the applications all shared the same answer to a security question – the name of the applicant’s first pet was “Benji.”
A joint investigation by the U.S. Secret Service (USSS) and the Department of Labor Office of Inspector General (DOL-OIG) led them to a residence linked to the IP address. A search revealed approximately $7,000 in cash, a computer displaying the NY DOL unemployment benefits page with personal identifying information of multiple victims open in a file, and – adding a surreal touch – a dog wearing a collar inscribed with the name “Benji.”
“As alleged, Elvin German used the identities of over 250 unknowing victims to file false claims,” stated Manhattan U.S. Attorney Audrey Strauss. “We thank our partners at DOL and Secret Service for alertly detecting German’s attempt to profiteer from funds earmarked to provide relief for families.” Patrick Freaney, Deputy Special Agent in Charge of the USSS New York Field Office, emphasized the agency’s commitment to pursuing those who exploit financial programs for personal gain.
German is charged with wire fraud and aggravated identity theft. If convicted, he faces significant prison time. The investigation remains ongoing, and authorities haven’t ruled out the possibility of additional charges or co-conspirators. The US Attorney’s Office is prosecuting the case.
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Key Facts
- Agency: U.S. Secret Service
- Category: Fraud & Financial Crimes
- Source: Official Press Release
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