A U.S. Customs and Border Protection official in Detroit has been charged with attempting to defraud the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) and making false statements to federal officials, authorities announced on Wednesday.
A criminal complaint against the official, Serina Baker-Hill, was unsealed by the U.S. attorney’s office for the Eastern District of Michigan. Baker-Hill, 55, is a veteran customs employee and the director of an agency center focused on the automotive and aerospace industries. She was arrested and later released on bond, although details regarding the arrest remain unclear.
According to the complaint, Baker-Hill applied for FEMA disaster assistance following severe storms that flooded numerous homes in the Detroit area in August 2023, including her own. A FEMA inspector confirmed damage to the basement of her home, and Baker-Hill claimed that she could not safely reside there while repairs were underway.
FEMA approved funding for repairs and provided two months of rental assistance, specifically designated for rent and essential utility costs during her temporary housing. The complaint indicates that Baker-Hill received approximately $6,300 from FEMA.
However, investigators found that bank records showed none of the funds were utilized for rent, hotel stays, or utilities. Video surveillance and utility records revealed that Baker-Hill and her husband continued living in their home, according to the complaint.
During an interview with federal agents, Baker-Hill denied any involvement in illegal activities or defrauding the U.S. government.
The investigation into Baker-Hill began last year while authorities were looking into an unrelated matter. Agents interviewed her in May.
Baker-Hill remains employed by the customs agency, and no legal representation has been listed for her in court records. The FBI director praised the charges, emphasizing a renewed commitment to combat public corruption.
The scrutiny surrounding FEMA has intensified, with former President Trump suggesting the possibility of disbanding the agency. There have been significant personnel changes, including the firing or resignation of over a dozen senior leaders.
A customs official noted that the majority of employees and officers serve with honor. Officials will assess whether to pursue a felony indictment following the completion of the investigation, with a hearing set for early April to determine if sufficient evidence exists for a trial.