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Georgia Rep Charged for Fraudulently Claiming Unemployment Benefits

1/31/2026

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Summary

Story summary

State Representative Dexter Sharper (D-Ga.) faces federal charges for lying to obtain unemployment benefits of $13,825 during COVID-19.
Prosecutors say he falsely claimed unemployment while earning income from multiple jobs, including his legislative work.
United States Attorney Theodore Hertzberg says Sharper's actions undermine public trust in elected officials.
Two other Georgia lawmakers have faced similar charges.

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Story summary

State Representative Dexter Sharper (D-Ga.) faces federal charges for lying to obtain unemployment benefits of $13,825 during COVID-19.
Prosecutors say he falsely claimed unemployment while earning income from multiple jobs, including his legislative work.
United States Attorney Theodore Hertzberg says Sharper's actions undermine public trust in elected officials.
Two other Georgia lawmakers have faced similar charges.