Hawkins Family Scammed $850K in COVID Rent Relief

RALEIGH, N.C. – Greed trumped genuine need in Eastern North Carolina as two members of the Hawkins family received federal prison sentences today for a brazen scheme to siphon over $850,000 from the NC HOPE Program, a lifeline designed to keep roofs over the heads of struggling residents during the COVID-19 pandemic. Takeeia Hawkins, 43, and her daughter, Shanasia Hawkins, 22, both of New Bern, pled guilty earlier this year to conspiracy to commit mail fraud and now face the consequences.

Takeeia Hawkins was handed a 36-month prison sentence, while Shanasia Hawkins will spend 15 months behind bars. The pair concocted a scheme where they falsely claimed to be landlords of properties throughout Eastern North Carolina, fabricating tenant hardship stories to qualify for emergency rental assistance. They successfully bilked the NC HOPE Program out of nearly $150,000, funds that were not used to help anyone but themselves. According to investigators, the stolen money was largely squandered on frivolous gifts and gambling, a slap in the face to those legitimately seeking help.

“This case represents yet another example of the greedy taking from the needy,” fumed U.S. Attorney Michael Easley. “COVID-19 monies were set aside to help struggling families pay their rent, and these defendants stole it. This office will continue its vigorous pursuit of those who used the pandemic to turn a fraudulent profit.” The sentiment was echoed by Acting Special Agent-in-Charge George Richardson of the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development, Office of Inspector General, who stated the fraud diverted “critical taxpayer money” intended for families facing unprecedented hardship.

The Hawkins’ aren’t the only ones facing justice. Several other family members and associates are also implicated in the scheme. Takeeia Hawkins’ son, Jmari Hawkins, 24, along with Jonell Ojeda, 23, and Tevin Evans, 26, have all pled guilty to their roles in fraudulently obtaining more than $850,000 from the NC HOPE Program. All three are scheduled to be sentenced later this summer, promising further accountability for this calculated fraud.

The NC HOPE Program, established during the height of the pandemic, was a crucial resource, directly paying landlords up to 15 months of overdue or future rent for approved applicants. The Hawkins group exploited this system by falsely claiming ownership of multiple properties and submitting bogus applications. While they attempted to defraud the program out of over $870,000, they successfully pocketed more than $250,000 before being caught. SBI Director Robert Schurmeier hailed the sentencing as “a testament to justice prevailing,” adding, “There are consequences for those who seek to exploit and harm others during vulnerable times.”

Treasury Acting Inspector General Rich Delmar emphasized the importance of oversight in safeguarding pandemic recovery programs, stating, “Treasury OIG’s oversight is a key factor in assuring the integrity and effectiveness of this and many other pandemic recovery programs on which millions of Americans rely.” The sentencing was handed down by United States District Judge Terrence W. Boyle, sending a clear message: exploiting a crisis for personal gain will not be tolerated. The investigation remains ongoing, with authorities continuing to untangle the full scope of the Hawkins’ fraudulent network and pursue further justice for those they harmed.