Dem Rep Cherfilus-McCormick says she’s ‘innocent’ of stealing COVID funds
Democratic Rep. Sheila Cherfilus-McCormick publicly declared her innocence this week as she faces federal charges alleging a conspiracy to steal millions of dollars in COVID-19 disaster relief funds, a case that has drawn renewed scrutiny to pandemic-era spending and oversight failures.
Speaking outside a federal courthouse in Miami, Cherfilus-McCormick said she did not take any government funds unlawfully and insisted the allegations misrepresent her actions. She emphasized her commitment to her constituents and denied any wrongdoing connected to federal relief programs created during the height of the pandemic.
“I just want to make it very clear that I am innocent,” she told reporters, adding that she did not steal any funds and remains focused on serving her district.
Charges Tied to Pandemic-Era Overpayments
Federal prosecutors have charged the Florida lawmaker with 15 counts related to an alleged scheme involving Trinity Healthcare Services, a healthcare company owned by members of her family. According to the indictment, the charges stem from funds disbursed in 2021 that were allegedly overpaid to the company as part of COVID-19 relief efforts tied to healthcare and vaccination services.
Authorities claim that instead of returning the excess funds, the money was improperly retained and used, forming the basis of the conspiracy and theft allegations. Cherfilus-McCormick has pleaded not guilty to all charges.
Her legal team requested that her arraignment be postponed to allow time to finalize representation. U.S. District Judge Lisette Reid approved the request, rescheduling the proceeding for January 20 after prosecutors raised no objection.
Broader Questions About COVID Relief Oversight
The case highlights ongoing concerns about the scale and speed of federal COVID-19 spending, which totaled trillions of dollars across multiple relief programs. While those programs were designed to stabilize the economy and support healthcare infrastructure during an unprecedented crisis, watchdogs and inspectors general have repeatedly warned that weak safeguards left the system vulnerable to waste, fraud, and abuse.
Multiple high-profile investigations across the country have already resulted in criminal charges against business owners, nonprofit operators, and contractors accused of exploiting emergency funding mechanisms. Cherfilus-McCormick’s case stands out because it involves a sitting member of Congress and a company connected to her family.
Political and Legal Stakes Ahead
Cherfilus-McCormick, who narrowly won her congressional seat in a special election, now faces a legal battle that could carry significant political consequences regardless of the outcome. If convicted, the charges could lead to substantial prison time and fines. Even absent a conviction, the case is likely to remain a focal point for critics who argue that pandemic relief programs lacked adequate accountability.
For now, the congresswoman maintains her innocence and says she intends to contest the charges in court. As the case moves forward, it is expected to intensify debate over pandemic spending, congressional ethics, and whether emergency relief programs were properly protected against misuse.
The January arraignment will mark the next major step in a case that continues to draw national attention.