Rep. Cherfilus-McCormick Indicted for $5M FEMA Theft

Breaking: Florida Congresswoman Faces Federal Charges

In a stunning development, Rep. Sheila Cherfilus-McCormick (D-Fla.) has been indicted by the Justice Department on charges of stealing and laundering $5 million in federal disaster relief funds. The indictment, unsealed on November 19, 2025, alleges the congresswoman and her brother conspired to divert money meant for COVID-19 vaccination efforts to fuel her congressional campaign and personal enrichment.

The Alleged Scheme

According to court documents, Cherfilus-McCormick and her brother, Edwin Cherfilus, exploited a 2021 FEMA-funded staffing contract tied to their family health care company. The company received a $5 million overpayment for vaccine-related services, which they allegedly conspired to steal. Prosecutors claim the funds were funneled through multiple accounts to conceal their origin before being used for:

• Congressional campaign expenses
• Personal financial gain
• Illegal straw donor contributions

Additionally, Cherfilus-McCormick is accused of filing a false federal tax return for 2021, with her brother allegedly preparing the fraudulent documents.

Background & Career

The 46-year-old congresswoman first gained office in January 2022 after winning a special election to replace the late Rep. Alcee Hastings. She secured 72.3% of the vote that year and ran uncontested during her 2023 re-election. Her indictment comes amid ongoing ethics investigations by the House Ethics Committee, which received a referral in May 2024 concerning suspicious community project funding requests.

Official Reactions

Attorney General Pam Bondi condemned the case as a "particularly selfish, cynical crime," emphasizing that "no one is above the law." In contrast, Cherfilus-McCormick's legal team issued a statement asserting she is "a committed public servant" who will "fight to clear her good name." The congresswoman notably did not participate in House roll-call votes on the day of the indictment announcement.

"Using disaster relief funds for self-enrichment is a particularly selfish, cynical crime."
— Attorney General Pam Bondi

What Happens Next?

The case, filed in a Miami federal court, marks the second congressional indictment this year. If convicted, Cherfilus-McCormick could face significant prison time. Separately, the House Ethics Committee—which unanimously re-authorized a subcommittee investigation in July 2025—continues to probe her conduct. The committee was required to make its initial report public in May 2025 after failing to conclude its probe within the mandated timeframe.

Broader Implications

This indictment underscores growing scrutiny of congressional ethics and the misuse of federal funds. As the Justice Department pursues high-profile public corruption cases, the outcome could impact voter confidence in government institutions. For now, Cherfilus-McCormick remains in office while legal and ethics proceedings unfold.