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Disaster Relief Scam Unravels in Houston
A 46-year-old Houston resident has been accused of committing a heinous crime.
Latoya Romar, a 46-year-old Houston resident, has admitted to fraudulently obtaining more than $7,000 in disaster relief. According to a recent announcement by Acting U.S. Attorney Jennifer B. Lowery, Romar entered a guilty plea to a scheme to defraud the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) in connection with the severe storm that struck Houston on May 4, 2015.
Romar applied for disaster relief, falsely claiming the storm damaged her residence and personal property. As part of her plea, she admitted that she submitted forged documents to FEMA to substantiate her false claims.
As a result of her fraudulent claims, FEMA paid Romar $7,124.33 in disaster relief that she was not entitled to receive.
Romar faces up to 30 years in federal prison and a $250,000 maximum possible fine. She was permitted to remain on bond pending her sentencing hearing, which is set for August 16.
The Department of Homeland Security – Office of Inspector General conducted the investigation, and Assistant U.S. Attorney Justin R. Martin prosecuted the case.
In this case, the law enforcement agencies have demonstrated their commitment to rooting out disaster relief scams and holding those responsible accountable for their actions.
As we continue to recover from natural disasters, it is essential that we also address the issue of disaster relief scams and protect the integrity of the relief system.
Key Facts
- State: Texas
- Category: Fraud & Financial Crimes
- Source: DOJ Press Release â†â€â€
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