UPDATE: A Southfield woman is facing trial for allegedly defrauding Michigan’s COVID Emergency Rental Assistance Program of nearly $100,000. Mariah Davis, age 33, waived her preliminary examination and is set for a Circuit Court Arraignment on October 29 in the 30th Circuit Court in Ingham County.
The charges against Davis include False Pretenses for an amount between $50,000 and $100,000 and Using a Computer to Commit a Crime. The Michigan State Housing Development Authority flagged her applications and referred the case to Attorney General Dana Nessel, who stated, “Fraudulent activity diverts resources away from those who truly need them, and I am relieved to see this matter is advancing through the judicial process.”
This urgent case highlights ongoing efforts to protect public funds intended for residents impacted by the pandemic. Amy Hovey, CEO of the Michigan State Housing Development Authority, emphasized the rarity of fraud cases but assured that they will not go unchecked: “Anyone who attempts to divert those resources is stealing from the state’s most vulnerable residents.”
As the judicial process unfolds, the community watches closely, aware that this case reflects broader issues of fraud that threaten essential support for those in need. The courtroom will soon determine Davis’s fate as the state remains vigilant against fraudulent claims impacting relief funds.
Stay tuned for updates on this developing story as the arraignment date approaches.
