South Raleigh News

New Bern resident Anthony Lynch has admitted to defrauding a COVID-19 rental assistance program. The 35-year-old pled guilty to charges of mail fraud after he falsely claimed to be the landlord of properties in Craven, Pamlico, and Onslow Counties. These claims were made through 25 applications submitted to the North Carolina Housing Opportunities and Prevention of Evictions Program (NC HOPE), which was designed to assist tenants struggling financially during the pandemic.

“Mr. Lynch exploited a taxpayer-funded program meant to support struggling families and individuals trying to stay in their homes during an unprecedented global pandemic,” stated U.S. Attorney Michael Easley. “Lynch sought nearly $400,000 in emergency federal funds in 25 separate relief applications. His ill-gotten profits have now landed him a federal conviction.”

The fraudulent applications resulted in 11 checks totaling $144,000 being sent to Lynch's residence in New Bern. He now faces up to 27 months in prison following his guilty plea.

The NC HOPE Program provided rental assistance by paying overdue or future rent directly to landlords on behalf of tenants for up to 15 months. This initiative aimed at preventing evictions and homelessness during the economic hardships brought about by the pandemic.

Michael F. Easley Jr., U.S. Attorney for the Eastern District of North Carolina, announced the guilty plea's acceptance by Chief United States District Judge Richard E. Myers. The investigation involved multiple agencies including the United States Department of Housing and Urban Development, Office of Inspector General; the United States Department of Treasury, Office of Inspector General; and the North Carolina State Bureau of Investigation. Assistant U.S. Attorney Karen Haughton is prosecuting the case.

Further details can be found on the website of the U.S. District Court for the Eastern District of North Carolina or via PACER using Case No. 4:24-cr-00061.