Former Horn Lake Alderman Charlie Roberts has been indicted on charges of unemployment compensation fraud for allegedly receiving benefits while also being paid as an elected official during the COVID-19 pandemic. According to DeSoto County District Attorney Matthew Barton, Roberts was supposed to report his income but consistently failed to do so, with fraudulently claimed amounts estimated between $10,000 and $25,000. State Auditor Shad White highlighted that this case is part of 'Operation Payback,' which aims to address the over $500 million Mississippi lost to unemployment fraud during the pandemic. Roberts is currently held on a $7,500 bond, and a court date is set for October 31. This indictment marks him as the only elected official identified in connection with this type of fraud so far. The case underscores ongoing efforts to combat corruption within public offices.