US Rep. Sheila Cherfilus-McCormick Charged with Stealing $5 Million in Federal Disaster Funds for Campaign
US Representative Sheila Cherfilus-McCormick faces charges for allegedly stealing $5 million in federal disaster funds from her family's healthcare company, diverting them to her 2021 congressional campaign.
Overview
US Representative Sheila Cherfilus-McCormick of Florida has been charged by the Justice Department with stealing $5 million in federal disaster funds.
The funds were allegedly diverted from her family health care company, Trinity Healthcare Services, which received them via a COVID-19 vaccination staffing contract in 2021.
Cherfilus-McCormick is accused of using these stolen funds for personal gain and to finance her 2021 congressional campaign through a 'straw donor' scheme.
She and her brother, Edwin Cherfilus, allegedly overcharged Florida by nearly $5.8 million for COVID-19 vaccination staffing, facilitating the theft of federal money.
The congresswoman also faces charges with her tax preparer for conspiring to file a false federal tax return; she could face up to 53 years in prison if convicted.
Analysis
Center-leaning sources cover the indictment of Rep. Sheila Cherfilus-McCormick neutrally. They consistently attribute all allegations to the Justice Department or prosecutors, using cautious language like "allegedly" and "accused." The coverage includes her strong denial and statements from her legal team, ensuring a balanced presentation of the charges and the defense.
Sources (21)
FAQ
Sheila Cherfilus-McCormick has been charged with stealing $5 million in federal disaster funds from her family health care company and diverting the money to her 2021 congressional campaign using a straw donor scheme; she also faces charges of conspiring to file a false federal tax return.
The $5 million was an overpayment received by Trinity Healthcare Services, Cherfilus-McCormick's family healthcare company, from a COVID-19 vaccination staffing contract; Cherfilus-McCormick and her brother allegedly overcharged Florida by nearly $5.8 million and funneled the excess funds to her campaign through multiple accounts to disguise their source.
If convicted, Cherfilus-McCormick could face up to 53 years in prison depending on the charges related to theft, conspiracy, and filing false tax returns.
The Justice Department indicted her after a federal grand jury investigation dating back to the Biden administration; the House Ethics Committee is also investigating following a referral from the Office of Congressional Ethics in 2023; House Democratic Leader Hakeem Jeffries has expressed that she is innocent until proven guilty.
Following her indictment, Cherfilus-McCormick stepped down from her House Foreign Affairs committee leadership position; Democratic leaders have emphasized the presumption of innocence, while some House members are considering moves for censure.
History
This story does not have any previous versions.