OFFICE OF INSPECTOR GENERALPress Releases
Labor Department Watchdog Highlights Major Fraud Convictions, Tens of Millions in Pandemic UI Schemes
February 24, 2026
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
U.S. Department of Labor, Office of Inspector General
WASHINGTON — The U.S. Department of Labor, Office of Inspector General (DOL OIG), led by Inspector General Anthony P. D’Esposito, today released its latest Investigations Newsletter detailing significant enforcement actions and major fraud convictions across the Nation.
The report underscores the OIG’s aggressive efforts to combat unemployment insurance fraud — including cases involving tens of millions of dollars in stolen pandemic-era benefits.
Among the highlights:
A California man pleaded guilty for his role in a conspiracy to launder more than $46 million in unemployment insurance funds. In a separate case, a Nigerian national was sentenced to 70 months in federal prison for his role in a $10 million pandemic unemployment fraud scheme.
“These cases represent real accountability,” said Inspector General D’Esposito. “During a national crisis, criminals attempted to exploit programs designed to help Americans in need. We investigated, we built strong cases, and we delivered results. Fraud is not a technical violation — it is a crime against taxpayers.”
The DOL OIG remains unwavering in its commitment to root out fraud, waste, and abuse wherever it exists. Through data-driven investigations, strike force collaboration, and close coordination with federal, state, and local law enforcement partners, the OIG continues to dismantle fraud networks and protect the integrity of critical worker benefit programs. Safeguarding taxpayer dollars and ensuring benefits reach eligible individuals is not optional — it is fundamental to maintaining public trust.
The Office of Investigations conducts criminal, civil, and administrative investigations into alleged violations of federal laws relating to Department of Labor programs, operations, and personnel. The OIG also combats labor racketeering and organized crime affecting employee benefit plans, labor-management relations, and internal union affairs.
For additional information on DOL OIG, please visit oig.dol.gov. If you suspect wrongdoing involving DOL programs or operations, contact the DOL-OIG Hotline at (800) 347-3756 or oig.dol.gov/hotlinecontact.htm.
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