Mariah Davis, 33, from Southfield, has been charged with filing false claims to get money from the COVID Emergency Rental Assistance program. She faces one count of False Pretenses for taking between $50,000 and $100,000, and one count of Using a Computer to Commit a Crime, as reported by the Department of Attorney General.
Davis is accused of filing six false applications to the Michigan State Housing Development Authority, receiving a total of $98,282.20. The funds were meant to help people pay rent and utility bills during the pandemic. Michigan Attorney General Dana Nessel said the case involves protecting resources meant for residents in need, according to the Department of Attorney General.
The Michigan State Housing Development Authority found suspicious applications linked to Davis and sent the case to the Department of Attorney General. MSHDA CEO Amy Hovey said, “While fraud and abuse are rare, we take every instance seriously.” Davis was arraigned in Lansing before Judge Cynthia M. Ward and was released on a $7,500 personal recognizance bond. Her next court hearing is set for August 1 at 2:30 p.m. before Judge Stacia Buchanan, as stated by the Department of Attorney General.
