A man will spend more than four years in federal prison for his role in a “million dollar” unemployment fraud scheme that exploited COVID-19 relief programs across multiple states, including Pennsylvania.

Tracey Dotson, 49, was sentenced to 51 months in prison and ordered to pay over $900,000 in restitution for his involvement in a conspiracy to steal unemployment benefits meant for those struggling after the COVID-19 pandemic.

According to the U.S. Attorney's Office for the Eastern District of Michigan, Dotson and a co-conspirator filed hundreds of fraudulent claims using stolen personal information, diverting funds intended for legitimate recipients in Michigan, Pennsylvania, and Maryland. This resulted in the two receiving hundreds of prepaid debit cards from Bank of America, totaling nearly a million dollars of Pandemic Unemployment Assistance funds.

Serious cases like this require serious defense. If you have been accused of fraud or other white-collar crime, the LLF Law Firm Criminal Defense Team is ready to help. Call us today at 888.535.3686 or contact us online to get started on your defense with a confidential consultation.

Not a Victimless Crime

Federal investigators say that Dotson's scheme not only siphoned nearly a million dollars from taxpayers—it left hundreds of individuals facing financial hardship. Acting US District Attorney Julie Beck said, "Taxpayer unemployment assistance funds diverted to the pockets of criminals during the pandemic resulted in fewer resources that were available for those genuinely in need at that challenging time.”

Instead of helping the intended individuals, the funds fraudulently acquired by Dotson and his co-conspirator were allegedly spent on high-end jewelry and fashion accessories, drugs, and at least one vehicle and one firearm.

In April of 2023, Dotson pleaded guilty to wire fraud and conspiracy to commit wire fraud in relation to this same case. His sentencing serves as another reminder that federal authorities continue to aggressively prosecute pandemic-related fraud.

Defending Fraud and White Collar Crimes in Pennsylvania

If you're facing charges of fraud or any other white-collar crime in Pennsylvania, the LLF Law Firm is ready to step up and protect your rights. We understand that every case is unique, and we will build our defense strategy around your specific situation. Our team will conduct a thorough investigation, gathering evidence and witness testimony to tell the full story of your case.

When you work with the LLF Law Firm, we'll be by your side through every step of the PA criminal process. There are a few things as stressful as facing serious legal consequences, and we won't let you go through it all by yourself. From the moment you contact us until the time when a satisfactory outcome has been reached, the LFF Law Firm will have your back in any fraud case or other so-called white-collar crime. All you need to do is call us today at 888.535.3686 or contact us online to get started defending your rights.