JACKSONVILLE, FL – Thomas B. Hoffman, 45, of Florahome, Florida, is facing a decade behind bars after admitting to systematically looting the Palatka Housing Authority (PHA). Hoffman pleaded guilty today to theft of federal funds, a charge stemming from a brazen scheme to divert over $155,000 into his own pocket.
The scheme, uncovered during a routine 2025 audit, involved a phantom company called “Data Max.” Between July 2023 and February 2025, PHA unknowingly issued 48 payments, totaling $155,706, to this bogus vendor. Federal investigators quickly discovered the dirty truth: Hoffman not only created Data Max, but also personally controlled its bank account.
Hoffman, who held a position of trust within PHA overseeing information technology and accounts payable, used his access to authorize the fraudulent payments. He then allegedly cashed PHA checks issued to Data Max on numerous occasions, the evidence captured on bank surveillance footage. This wasn’t a momentary lapse in judgment; it was a calculated, prolonged theft of funds earmarked for vital public housing programs.
“Thomas Hoffman took advantage of the position of trust he held to oversee federal funds intended to provide housing for our most vulnerable community members by stealing over $155,000 and converting it to his own personal use,” stated Acting Special Agent in Charge Bozena Schrank with the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD), Office of Inspector General (OIG). “By creating a fictitious vendor that he owned, he also took away the opportunity for other actual hard-working companies to compete for contracts and provide services to the Palatka Housing Authority.”
As part of his plea agreement, Hoffman has agreed to forfeit the entire $155,706, representing the stolen funds, and will also be required to make full restitution to the PHA. While a sentencing date has not yet been set, Hoffman faces a maximum penalty of 10 years in federal prison. This case serves as a stark reminder that those who prey on public resources will be held accountable.
The investigation was conducted by HUD – Office of the Inspector General, with Assistant United States Attorney David B. Mesrobian prosecuting the case. The Grimy Times will continue to follow this case and provide updates as they become available. The public deserves to know when those entrusted with their tax dollars betray that trust.
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Key Facts
- State: Florida
- Agency: DOJ USAO
- Category: White Collar Crime|Public Corruption
- Source: Official Source ↗
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