FBI Arrests Alleged $32 Million COVID Relief Fraud Fugitive After Capture in Jamaica
An illustration depicting the FBI's arrest of an alleged COVID-19 relief fraud fugitive accused of obtaining more than $32 million in pandemic assistance funds before being captured in Jamaica and returned to the United States to face federal charges.
FBI Arrests Alleged $32 Million COVID Relief Fraud Fugitive After Capture in Jamaica
Federal Authorities Return Most Wanted Suspect to US to Face Wire Fraud and Money Laundering Charges
The FBI has announced the arrest and return of an alleged COVID-19 relief fraud fugitive accused of obtaining more than $32 million in taxpayer-funded pandemic assistance before fleeing the United States. Authorities say Elaine Angine Esco, who had been living under a false identity in Jamaica, is now back in U.S. custody to face multiple federal charges related to an alleged large-scale fraud scheme.
Federal investigators allege Esco failed to appear in court after being indicted in 2025 and remained a fugitive until law enforcement officials located and apprehended her in Jamaica. The arrest marks another significant development in the Justice Department’s ongoing effort to pursue individuals accused of exploiting emergency COVID-19 relief programs.
Suspect Indicted on Multiple Federal Charges
According to federal prosecutors, Esco was indicted on charges that include conspiracy to commit wire fraud, wire fraud, conspiracy to commit money laundering, and multiple counts of money laundering.
Authorities allege she fraudulently secured more than $32 million through COVID-19 relief programs established to assist businesses affected by the pandemic. Prosecutors contend that after the indictment was issued, Esco fled the country rather than appearing in federal court.
Investigators say she adopted the alias Harley Newman while residing in Jamaica, where she remained until her arrest through a coordinated international law enforcement effort.
FBI Highlights Continued Success in Capturing Fraud Fugitives
FBI Director Kash Patel described the arrest as another milestone in the bureau’s campaign against large-scale financial fraud. According to Patel, Esco became the fourth individual on the FBI’s Most Wanted Fraud list to be apprehended within a five-week period.
The FBI credited cooperation with international partners for helping locate and extradite the suspect back to the United States.
Officials say the operation reflects the bureau’s continued focus on identifying and apprehending fugitives accused of major financial crimes, regardless of where they attempt to evade arrest.
Justice Department: Pandemic Fraud Will Be Prosecuted
Attorney General Todd Blanche said the defendant allegedly diverted millions of dollars intended to support legitimate businesses during the COVID-19 emergency.
Justice Department officials emphasized that individuals accused of abusing taxpayer-funded relief programs will continue to be investigated and prosecuted, even if they leave the country.
Authorities stated that fleeing the United States does not shield suspects from criminal prosecution and that international cooperation remains an important tool in locating wanted individuals.
More Than 30 High-Value Fugitives Returned Since June
Federal officials reported that since June, the FBI has returned more than 30 high-value fugitives to the United States. According to the bureau, the four most recent fraud suspects apprehended collectively face allegations involving nearly $1.8 billion in fraudulent activity.
The agency says its ongoing investigations target individuals accused of wire fraud, money laundering, and other financial crimes involving federal assistance programs.
Officials believe these enforcement efforts help protect taxpayer resources while reinforcing accountability for alleged misuse of government funds.
COVID Relief Fraud Remains a Federal Priority
The Esco case is one of several high-profile investigations involving alleged fraud tied to pandemic-era financial assistance programs. Federal authorities continue reviewing cases involving emergency relief funds distributed during the COVID-19 pandemic.
The Justice Department has repeatedly stated that individuals accused of exploiting these programs will be pursued regardless of how much time has passed or where they attempt to hide.
As Esco’s criminal case proceeds through the federal court system, prosecutors will seek to prove the allegations outlined in the indictment. Like all criminal defendants, she is presumed innocent unless proven guilty beyond a reasonable doubt.
The investigation also serves as a reminder of the government’s continued effort to identify and prosecute alleged financial crimes involving billions of dollars in pandemic relief funding distributed during the national emergency.
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