New Jersey Man Convicted in $570K COVID Fraud Scheme

The U.S. Attorney’s Office for the District of New Jersey announced today that a New York man has been convicted of conspiring to illegally acquire over $570,000 in COVID-19 unemployment benefits. Following a five-day jury trial before U.S. District Judge Robert Kirsch in Trenton federal court, Jose Tavares, 37, of Englewood, New Jersey, was found guilty on October 28 of one count of conspiracy to commit wire fraud.

Collaboration with Co-Conspirators

According to the U.S. Attorney’s Office, Tavares worked alongside co-conspirators Yanira Abreu, 43, of Keasby, New Jersey, and Christopher Valerio, 34, of Perth Amboy, New Jersey. Both Abreu and Valerio previously pleaded guilty to related charges and were sentenced by Judge Kirsch as part of the same conspiracy.

Court documents reveal that from July 2020 to February 2021, Tavares, Valerio, Abreu, and others submitted fraudulent unemployment insurance applications to the New York Department of Labor (NYDOL). They created fake online profiles using personal information—including names, dates of birth, and Social Security numbers—of unsuspecting individuals. After the NYDOL processed these applications, Tavares and his co-conspirators obtained debit cards loaded with over $570,000 in benefits.

Also read: Nine-Year Sentence for Man Involved in $24 Million Oxycodone Distribution Scheme

Misuse of Fraudulent Funds

The fraudulent funds were allegedly used for personal expenses, including vacations, luxury retail purchases, and cosmetic surgery. The conspiracy charge of wire fraud carries a maximum penalty of 20 years in prison and a fine of up to $250,000, or twice the gross gain or loss involved.

Tavares is scheduled for sentencing on March 4, 2025, according to the U.S. Attorney’s Office. This case serves as a reminder of the serious consequences of exploiting government assistance programs intended to support those in need during the COVID-19 pandemic.

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