Texas Man Facing Wire Fraud Charges for CARES Act Scam

CONCORD – In a bold move to defraud state and federal taxpayers, Dyetaniel Washington, 29, of Texas, has been arraigned for his alleged role in a scheme to siphon off funds from the CARES Act.

Washington, along with co-defendants Kyereem Sackey and Jerred Beniquez, were hit with charges on October 25, 2023. The trio faced federal court today, where Washington was released under conditions set by the judge.

According to the U.S. Attorney’s Office, Washington is accused of obtaining Beniquez’s personal identifying information and using it to file unemployment insurance claims in New York. He then funneled some of the proceeds back to himself.

Washington faces up to 20 years in prison and a fine of $250,000 for conspiracy to commit wire fraud. His co-defendants also face stiff penalties if convicted.

The investigation was spearheaded by the FBI and the Department of Labor Office of Inspector General, with significant support from the Manchester Police Department. Assistant U.S. Attorney John J. Kennedy is handling the prosecution.

Despite the serious charges, it’s important to note that Dyetaniel Washington remains presumed innocent until proven guilty beyond a reasonable doubt in a court of law.