A Kenner woman has pleaded guilty to filing a false claim with the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) following Hurricane Ida. Acting U.S. Attorney Michael M. Simpson announced that Sonja Lee, 49, entered her plea on July 29, 2025.
According to the indictment, Lee submitted a fraudulent claim for financial assistance to FEMA by alleging that her primary residence and personal property were damaged after Hurricane Ida, despite knowing this was not true.
At sentencing, Lee faces 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 said, “I want to thank the United States Department of Homeland Security, Office of Inspector General for their work in investigating this matter.” The prosecution was handled by Assistant United States Attorney Tiwana Wright of the Financial Crimes Unit.
