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Ruth Nivar, a former high-ranking official at the D.C. Department of Human Services, has been arrested and charged with extortion and conspiracy in Washington D.C.
According to the indictment, Nivar, 56, extorted payments from individuals applying for health care coverage from the D.C. government, allegedly processing their benefits in exchange for the payments. This scheme, which started as early as November 2022, also involved her co-conspirator, Yessica Moya, 35.
When Moya was introduced into the scheme, Nivar attempted to disguise her receipt of payment and information from law enforcement. The indictment charges Nivar and Moya with Hobbs Act extortion, carrying a maximum sentence of 20 years in prison, and conspiracy to commit Hobbs Act extortion, with a maximum sentence of five years.
U.S. Attorney Matthew M. Graves announced the charges, along with Special Agent in Charge David J. Scott of the FBI’s Washington Field Office’s Criminal and Cyber Division, and Daniel W. Lucas, Inspector General of the District of Columbia.
The case is being investigated by the FBI’s Washington Field Office and the Office of the Inspector General of the District of Columbia. Assistant U.S. Attorney Madhu Chugh is prosecuting the case.
An indictment is merely an allegation, and all defendants are presumed innocent until proven guilty beyond a reasonable doubt in a court of law.
The indictment, unsealed yesterday, detailed the alleged scheme, which involved Nivar and Moya demanding payments from individuals in exchange for processing their health care benefits. This case highlights the need for transparency and accountability in government agencies.
Key Facts
- State: Washington DC
- Category: Public Corruption
- Source: DOJ Press Release â†â€â€
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