Maryland and New York Women Admit to COVID Relief Fraud Scheme

Two women, one from Maryland and another from New York, have pleaded guilty to conspiracy to commit wire fraud in connection with fraudulently obtaining COVID-19 relief funds. The scheme involved submitting falsified documents to secure Paycheck Protection Program (PPP) loans under the CARES Act, with the illicit gains being shared among those involved.

Kimberly VanKline, 56, of Hyattsville, Maryland, and Rhonda Brown-Moore, 65, of Brooklyn, New York, entered their guilty pleas before a federal district court judge. Court documents detailed how VanKline and Brown-Moore collaborated to create and submit fraudulent paperwork to obtain these federal relief funds. Their actions specifically facilitated the improper receipt of funds on behalf of a resident of the Northern District of West Virginia. In return for their participation in this illegal activity, both women received compensation derived from the fraudulent proceeds.

The consequences for VanKline and Brown-Moore could be severe, as they each face a maximum penalty of 20 years in federal prison. The final sentencing will be determined by a federal district court judge, who will take into account the U.S. Sentencing Guidelines and other relevant legal factors. The prosecution of this case was handled by Assistant U.S. Attorneys Jennifer Conklin and Kimberley Crockett, with the Federal Bureau of Investigation conducting the investigation. U.S. Magistrate Judge Robert W. Trumble presided over the proceedings.

This case highlights ongoing efforts to prosecute those who have attempted to exploit government relief programs established during the COVID-19 pandemic.

Article by Mel Anara, based upon information from the U.S. Attorney’s Office, Northern District of West Virginia.

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