FBI fugitive accused of $32 million COVID-19 relief fraud scheme captured in Jamaica, returned to US

Jamaican authorities arrested 41-year-old Elaine Angene Escoe following a manhunt, and on Thursday she was returned to Florida. Prosecutors have alleged that Escoe helped fraudulently obtain over $32 million in taxpayer-funded COVID-19 relief funds before fleeing the country after failing to appear in federal court.

In 2025, Escoe was indicted on charges including conspiracy to commit wire fraud, wire fraud, conspiracy to commit money laundering, and money laundering. A federal judge issued an arrest warrant after she failed to appear in court in May 2025.

The FBI located Escoe after receiving a tip. According to Fox News, FBI Director Kash Patel said she had been living under the fake identity “Harley Newman.” Patel added that her arrest was another milestone in the FBI’s crackdown on international fraud.

"The historic success of the 'Most Wanted Fraudster' list continues as the FBI, and our partners just captured our fourth Most Wanted Fraudster in 5 weeks, and yet another high value target returned to the U.S. by this FBI," Patel said. "Elaine Angene Escoe, on the run since May 2025, was captured in Jamaica while living under a fake identity of 'Harley Newman' — and returned to the United States today to face justice."

Since June, the FBI has returned over 30 high-value targets to the US.

"Under this administration, fraud is no longer tolerated, and those who steal from American taxpayers have nowhere to hide," Patel added.

Attorney General Todd Blanche said that Escoe had been “stealing critical resources from legitimate businesses during a national crisis.”

"She fled the country believing she could escape justice but ultimately could not," Blanche said. "Those who exploit taxpayer-funded programs will be held accountable by this Department of Justice, no matter how long it takes or where they attempt to hide."