Lauderhill, FL (Le Floridien) – Authorities have arrested Sandra Janet Martin, a resident of Lauderhill, Florida, accused of defrauding Broward County of nearly $82,000 through false claims submitted to the Emergency Rental Assistance Program (ERAP). The arrest follows an extensive investigation conducted by the Broward County Property Appraiser’s Office (BCPA).
Initially triggered by suspicions of a Homestead Exemption violation flagged by county officials, the investigation expanded significantly. The BCPA’s exemption fraud unit soon uncovered a broader, more intricate fraud involving multiple deceptive rental reimbursement claims.
Investigators discovered that Martin allegedly misrepresented herself as the owner of four distinct properties to receive rental payments from ERAP. Although Martin legitimately owns one property in Lauderhill, the other three properties are owned by separate individuals coincidentally sharing the name “Sandra Martin.” Investigators confirmed that none of these properties had ever been rented, and the actual property owners were unaware of the fraudulent activity.
The Emergency Rental Assistance Program, established by the U.S. Department of the Treasury, was created to provide financial relief to families struggling with housing expenses during the COVID-19 pandemic. Designed to aid those experiencing genuine financial distress, the program has, unfortunately, become vulnerable to exploitation by fraudsters.
Martin’s actions allegedly resulted in the unlawful acquisition of approximately $81,950, diverting critical funds from deserving families facing genuine hardship.
The collaborative investigative efforts of Broward County Property Appraiser Marty Kiar, Broward Sheriff Gregory Tony, and State Attorney Harold Pryor led to Martin’s arrest and charge with several serious felonies, including Organized Scheme to Defraud—Grand Theft—Criminal Use of Personal Information.
The Broward Sheriff’s Office (BSO) arrested Martin on March 11. She was subsequently booked into the Broward Main Jail and released the following day after posting a $6,000 bond. Court records show that Martin has pleaded not guilty to all charges.
Authorities praised Broward County’s prompt response and effective collaboration among various law enforcement agencies for uncovering the fraud and pressing charges against Martin. This case highlights the crucial need for stringent oversight and protection of government assistance programs, ensuring resources reach individuals and families genuinely in need.
