FBI Most Wanted Fraud Suspect Pleads Not Guilty in $32 Million COVID Relief Case
Elaine Escoe, a South Florida woman, has pleaded not guilty to federal charges related to a $32 million COVID-19 relief fraud scheme. Captured in Jamaica after being placed on the FBI's Most Wanted Fraudsters list, Escoe appeared in federal court for her arraignment. She waived a formal reading of the indictment, entered a not guilty plea, and requested a jury trial. The charges against her include conspiracy to commit wire fraud and money laundering. Escoe and others allegedly submitted fraudulent applications for federal pandemic relief funds, using fake tax documents and fabricated banking records. Some applications involved businesses controlled by the group, while others paid kickbacks. Escoe became a fugitive after failing to appear for a court proceeding in 2025, leading to her addition to the FBI's Most Wanted list. Her case will proceed to a jury trial, with no date set yet. 
