Sheila Cherfilus-McCormick, 46, a Democratic Party congresswoman from Florida, shared a portrait photo in a Christmas greeting post on 25/12 on social media platform X. However, when compared to an earlier version of the photo, internet users quickly noticed that a ring on the congresswoman's hand had disappeared.
"Where is the ring you bought with stolen money?", some commenters asked.
Sheila was indicted on 19/11 on charges of embezzling $5 million USD in Covid-19 relief funds from the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA). The politician is accused of using a bank check worth $109,000 USD to purchase a 3,14-carat yellow diamond ring in New York in September 2021.
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An earlier portrait of Sheila Cherfilus-McCormick wearing the ring (left) was edited to remove it. Photo: United States House of Representatives/X |
According to Sheila's chief of staff, Naomie Pierre-Louis, the photo editing was not directed by the congresswoman. The decision was made by well-meaning staff members to protect Sheila's reputation, although this was "unauthorized and should not have occurred".
Federal indictments allege Sheila and her brother embezzled $5 million USD in FEMA relief funds. FEMA had hired a company owned by Sheila's family to provide Covid-19 vaccine administration services. In 2021, FEMA mistakenly transferred $5 million USD to this company due to an "administrative error".
The money was not returned but was instead transferred to multiple accounts belonging to Sheila's friends and relatives. They then donated the funds to the congresswoman's 2022 Congressional campaign and used them for personal expenses, including the diamond ring.
Court records indicate Sheila faces charges of public funds embezzlement, false tax statements, and other offenses. She faces a total of 15 federal charges and, if convicted, could serve up to 53 years in prison.
The congresswoman surrendered to authorities in Miami on 25/11 and was subsequently released on bail. She pleaded not guilty and is scheduled to appear in court for her arraignment on 29/12.
Tue Anh (according to CBS12, People)
