Federal authorities have charged Georgia State Representative Dexter Sharper with making false statements to obtain unemployment benefits designated for those affected by the COVID-19 pandemic. The charges were made public on Friday as part of an ongoing crackdown on alleged benefit fraud by elected officials in Georgia.
Sharper, a Democrat representing a district in South Georgia and based in Valdosta, is accused of providing misleading information during his application process for federal pandemic unemployment assistance. According to prosecutors, he claimed that his sole employment was through his party rental business and that he had ceased working there since March 13, 2020. Further, he attested in 38 weekly declarations that he was without income and actively seeking employment.
However, investigators contend that Sharper was, in fact, earning wages from two to three jobs weekly during the period in which he was claiming unemployment benefits. Prosecutors state he received $325 per week as a state legislator, up to $275 weekly performing as a musician, and $2,231 weekly from the party rental enterprise.
U.S. Attorney Theodore Hertzberg expressed concern over the allegations, emphasizing the breach of public trust. "While many constituents and fellow citizens faced job losses and financial hardship during the pandemic, Representative Sharper allegedly misrepresented his employment status to claim unemployment benefits," Hertzberg said in an official statement. He added that such actions by an elected official undermine confidence in government institutions.
Representative Sharper has declined to comment publicly on the matter, citing ongoing legal proceedings. It remains unclear whether he intends to resign from his legislative position.
During the pandemic, the federal government issued enhanced unemployment benefits using state systems to individuals who lost employment due to COVID-19. Recipients were required to verify their job status weekly to maintain eligibility for these benefits.
This case marks the third instance of a sitting Georgia legislator facing accusations of similar misconduct. Earlier prosecutions include Democratic Representative Sharon Henderson from Covington, who faced charges of theft of government funds and making false statements related to $17,811 in unemployment benefits, leading to her suspension from the legislature. Additionally, Democratic Representative Karen Bennett of Stone Mountain was charged with making false statements to obtain $13,940 in benefits.
The wave of cases highlights federal efforts to address alleged fraudulent use of pandemic-related relief funds, particularly among lawmakers entrusted with public service.