A Citrus Heights couple was recently indicted for defrauding California’s unemployment insurance system of $1 million from June through December 2020. The U.S. Attorney’s officials reported that 36-year-old Deshawn Oshaea Campbell and 33-year-old Rochelle Pasley submitted multiple fraudulent unemployment claims to the California Employment Development Department (EDD). They reportedly engaged in identity theft and falsely asserted that they had lost their jobs and could not secure new ones due to the COVID-19 pandemic. The EDD approved more than 50 such fraudulent claims made by the couple, authorities stated. For their actions, Campbell and Pasley potentially face a maximum sentence of 20 years in prison and a $250,000 fine for each count of conspiracy and mail fraud.

For those seeking to get in touch with EDD regarding unemployment claims and need legitimate assistance, you are encouraged to reach out to the EDD customer service. Keep in mind that it is important to provide accurate and honest information to avoid any legal repercussions. Misrepresentation or falsification of details can result in severe penalties and criminal charges, as evidenced by the recent indictment of the Citrus Heights couple.