DETROIT (WWJ) -- Another state contractor has been charged with unemployment fraud during the COVD-19 pandemic.
Autumn Mims, 28, is accused of stealing third-party unemployment insurance benefits while also fraudulently collecting unemployment benefits herself.
Investigators say that the Birmingham woman started working as a contract employee for the Michigan Unemployment Insurance Agency in August 2020.
Shortly afterwards, she allegedly began using her insider access to process claims in the names of third parties without their knowledge.
Mims is also accused of using the names to open multiple bank accounts.
While working for the MUIA, investigators say that Mims also falsely claimed she was unemployed so she could collect benefits for herself.
“These charges show our continued commitment to prosecuting those who attempt to use the COVID-19 crisis to steal taxpayer funds and fraudulently enrich themselves,” said Acting United States Attorney Saima Mohsin.
The case is being prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Andrew J. Yahkind, and the investigation is being conducted jointly by the FBI, the UIA, the Department of Labor, and the Office of Inspector General.
Last week, Brandi Hawkins, another former contract employee for the Michigan Unemployment Insurance agency, pleaded guilty to a federal charge for her role in a multi-million dollar fraud scheme.
Hawkins faces up to 20 years in a federal prison at her sentencing, set for October 28.
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