United States of America v. Kembreia Deija Mystic Greer

Little Rock, Arkansas, criminal defense lawyer represented the Def edndant charged with wire fraud in violation of 18 U.S.C. 1343.

Reported by Kent Morlan

Kembreia Deija Mystic Greer began her employment at a medical facility in December 2019, she resided in Little Rock. On October 29, 2020, Greer was terminated from her position at the medical facility. An investigation revealed that on July 13, 2020, Greer electronically filed an application for benefits under the Pandemic Unemployment Assistance program through the Massachusetts Department of Unemployment Assistance. During the investigation it was determined that the IP address used to submit the application electronically was associated with a phone number belonging to an account established by Greer. She received from the State of Massachusetts a total of approximately $15,795 in Pandemic Unemployment Assistance benefits.

Further investigation revealed that between June 30, 2020, and September 14, 2020, Greer submitted applications for Pandemic Unemployment Assistance benefits in her name and other people’s names to multiple state work force agencies, including California, Texas, Alabama, Illinois, and others. Except Arkansas, Greer never worked or resided in the states where she applied for unemployment benefits. As a result of Greer’s conduct, in total more than $330,000 in fraudulent unemployment benefits were issued.

“Greer exploited federal assistance programs that were established to support individuals and businesses facing unprecedented challenges during the COVID-19 pandemic and used those resources for personal gain. The U.S. Postal Inspection Service remains committed to protecting public funds and preserving the integrity of the nation’s mail system from criminal misuse. I would like to thank the United States Attorney’s Office for the Eastern District of Arkansas, the Federal Bureau of Investigation, and the Department of Labor Office of Inspector General for their partnership and dedication throughout this investigation,” said Inspector in Charge Kai Pickens, U.S. Postal Inspection Service, Fort Worth Division.

“Greer brazenly stole funds meant to support vulnerable Americans through difficult times. Her guilty plea and sentencing underscore our unwavering determination to pursue fraud wherever it hides,” said Inspector General Anthony P. D'Esposito, U.S. Department of Labor. “If you attempt to defraud the system, know this: we will hunt you down, investigate you and ensure you face full consequences. Accountability is not an option.”

The Defendant was found guilty and was sentenced to 18 months imprisonment; one (1) year supervised release; $100 special penalty assessment; $334,441.62 restitution.