ATLANTA (AP) — Federal prosecutors filed charges against Karen Bennett, a former Georgia state House member, on Monday for allegedly lying to collect $13,940 in federal unemployment benefits during the pandemic. Bennett, who resigned from the House just days before her charges were revealed, pleaded not guilty and was released on $10,000 bail.
Prosecutors allege Bennett falsely claimed that she was unable to work due to quarantine restrictions. In reality, she was said to be managing her business from home, while it continued to earn income. The investigation is part of a larger probe, as other state lawmakers are also under scrutiny for similar potential fraud.
This charge marks the second case against a Democratic representative involving unemployment fraud, following the indictment of Rep. Sharon Henderson last December. Bennett's actions have raised questions about the integrity of local officials and the use of pandemic relief funds.
Prosecutors allege Bennett falsely claimed that she was unable to work due to quarantine restrictions. In reality, she was said to be managing her business from home, while it continued to earn income. The investigation is part of a larger probe, as other state lawmakers are also under scrutiny for similar potential fraud.
This charge marks the second case against a Democratic representative involving unemployment fraud, following the indictment of Rep. Sharon Henderson last December. Bennett's actions have raised questions about the integrity of local officials and the use of pandemic relief funds.
