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Ex-Georgia Lawmaker Pleads Guilty to Pandemic Fraud

1/22/2026

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Summary

Story summary

Karen Bennett, a former Georgia House member, pleaded guilty to lying to collect $13,940 in federal unemployment benefits during the pandemic.
She resigned before charges.
Sentencing is set for April 15.
Governor Brian Kemp called a special election for House District 94 to replace her.
Bennett is the second Democratic member charged with unemployment fraud after Rep. Sharon Henderson.

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Story summary

Karen Bennett, a former Georgia House member, pleaded guilty to lying to collect $13,940 in federal unemployment benefits during the pandemic.
She resigned before charges.
Sentencing is set for April 15.
Governor Brian Kemp called a special election for House District 94 to replace her.
Bennett is the second Democratic member charged with unemployment fraud after Rep. Sharon Henderson.