FBI Hunts South Florida Woman in $34 Million COVID 19 Relief Fraud Scheme

by | Sep 5, 2025 | Miami News | 0 comments

Federal authorities are searching for 40-year-old Elaine Angene Escoe, accused of helping orchestrate a $34 million COVID-19 relief fraud.

Between 2020 and 2021, Escoe and others allegedly submitted over 90 fraudulent applications for federal programs including PPP loans, disaster relief, and restaurant aid. Investigators say they falsified payroll, revenue, and employee data, then diverted the money through businesses they controlled, withdrawing cash and concealing funds with blank checks.

Escoe missed a scheduled court appearance in June and has been on the run since. She faces charges of conspiracy, wire fraud, and money laundering. The FBI is urging anyone with information to call 1-800-CALL-FBI.