Fraudulent Identities Used to Steal Over $1 Million from NYC Housing Program
What happened
Three residents were arrested in New Jersey after allegedly stealing over $1 million from New York City’s One Shot Deal program using fraudulent identities, according to the Department of Investigation. The scammers used fake identities and front companies posing as landlords to swindle the Human Resources Administration. The defendants submitted 170 applications to the program, of which 94 were approved.
From citylimits.org
Why it matters
The One Shot Deal program provides city funds to help residents facing eviction or homelessness. The fraud represents a direct loss of public money designated for housing assistance. The Department of Social Services stated that its integrity review process had identified suspicious applications two years prior.
From citylimits.org
Who's involved
- Erica WilliamsOne of the defendants charged with conspiracy and wire fraud.
- Kareem CantyOne of the defendants charged with conspiracy and wire fraud.
- City of New YorkThe municipal government whose housing assistance program was targeted by the fraud.
Who could feel it
Possible knock-on effectsThese are possibilities Brind reasoned out, not predictions, and not advice. Most are not stated in any report.
- City of New YorkSpeculative
The City of New York might face direct financial losses and increased regulatory costs due to the fraud.
- Department of Social ServicesSpeculative
The Department of Social Services may face increased administrative costs due to the need for enhanced oversight.
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The entities involved
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Erica Williams
Miss Wyoming Teen USA 1995
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