A Kenner woman has pleaded guilty to filing a false claim with the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) following Hurricane Ida. According to Acting U.S. Attorney Michael M. Simpson, Sonja Lee, 49, admitted on July 29, 2025, to submitting a fraudulent application for financial assistance after the storm.
The indictment states that Lee claimed her primary residence and personal property were damaged by Hurricane Ida, despite knowing the information was false.
At sentencing, Lee could face up to five years in prison, a fine of up to $250,000, up to three years of supervised release, and a mandatory $100 special assessment fee. She will also be required to pay restitution to FEMA.
Acting U.S. Attorney Michael M. Simpson acknowledged the efforts of the United States Department of Homeland Security’s Office of Inspector General in investigating the case. The prosecution was handled by Assistant United States Attorney Tiwana Wright from the Financial Crimes Unit.
