Federal Indictment: Rep. Sheila Cherfilus-McCormick Misused $5M Funds - Allegations of Illegal Campaign Activities and Tax Fraud
Democratic representative Sheila Cherfilus-McCormick of Florida has been indicted by a federal grand jury for allegedly misusing over $5 million in federal disaster funds from her company for her 2021 congressional campaign. The indictment alleges that Cherfilus-McCormick and her brother, Edwin Cherfilus, diverted funds received from FEMA overpayments through various accounts to conceal their origin.
Attorney General Pamela Bondi condemned the misuse of disaster relief funds, stating that no one, especially those in power, should be above the law. In addition to the misuse of funds, Cherfilus-McCormick and her staff member, Nadege Leblanc, are accused of arranging illegal campaign contributions through straw donors.
Further charges include conspiring to file a false federal tax return, with potential consequences of up to 53 years in prison if convicted. The Guardian has reached out to Cherfilus-McCormick for comment.