Former Michigan Unemployment Insurance Agency contractor, Autumn Mims, 31, has been sentenced to five years and five months for her involvement in the theft of unemployment aid. Pleading guilty to engaging in aggravated identity theft and conspiring to engage in wire fraud, Mims has been ordered to pay $583,409 in restitution. She, along with co-conspirator William Hayes, 27, leveraged the names of third parties to illegally obtain benefits. According to officials, Mims used her agency privileges to process claims in these names, altering direct deposit information and even setting up bank accounts without the knowledge of the individuals involved. She also falsely claimed unemployment to gain personal benefits. In a public statement, U.S. Attorney Dawn Ison expressed continued commitment to prosecuting those who steal government funds intended for the needy. Special Agent in Charge Cheyvoryea Gibson of the FBI in Michigan also condemned Mims’ actions as a direct betrayal of the public trust and theft of taxpayer money. The sentencing of co-conspirator Hayes, who pleaded guilty in 2023, is scheduled for next month.

If you need further information related to unemployment benefits, contact the Michigan Unemployment Insurance Agency’s customer service department. For the most efficient communication, be prepared with pertinent information such as your social security number, claim ID, and any relevant employment details. You can usually reach a representative during regular business hours.