CBP Official Charged with FEMA Fraud, Lying to Agents

Serina Baker-Hill, a 55-year-old Director at U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP), has been charged with attempting to defraud FEMA and lying to federal agents. Following severe flooding in Detroit in August 2023, Baker-Hill applied for disaster assistance, claiming her home was uninhabitable due to damage. However, investigations revealed that she did not use the FEMA funds for their intended purpose, with bank records indicating the money was not spent on rent or utilities, and surveillance footage showing her living in the home. This case is part of the FBI's renewed efforts to combat public corruption, as stated by FBI Director Kash Patel. Baker-Hill has maintained her innocence, asserting that she did not commit any illegal activities. The charges highlight the broader issue of integrity within federal agencies tasked with disaster response.