United States of America v. Tasha Hoggatt

Spokane, Washington, criminal defense lawyer represented the Defendant charged with theft concerning programs receiving federal funds in violation of 18 U.S.c. 666(a)(1).

Digested by Kent Morlan

Between October 1, 2021, and October 31, 2022, Tasha Hoggatt, age 51, of Valencia, California, was employed with the Washington State Employment Security Department (ESD) as a Human Resource Consultant. Between May 16, 2024, and September 19, 2024, Hoggatt was employed with ESD as a Benefits Specialist. While employed with ESD, Hoggatt filed false and fraudulent Paid Family Medical Leave Act applications in her own name and in the name of two family members setting out fictitious medical information and supported by documents with forged doctor signatures. Hoggatt also fraudulently applied for Washington State unemployment insurance benefits between October 31, 2022, and May 16, 2024, while not employed by ESD. Hoggatt falsely represented to ESD that she was unemployed during this period, but she was in fact employed in California. Through her false submissions, Hoggatt stole $51,403 from Washington State’s Paid Family Leave and Unemployment Insurance programs.

The case was investigated by Department of Labor, Office of the Inspector General.

The Defendant was found guilty and was sentenced to 5 years; Fine: $4,000.00; Special Penalty Assessment: $100; Restitution: $51,403.00.