Georgia Democratic Representative Accused of Deceiving to Get COVID Unemployment Assistance

Georgia Lawmaker Charged with Unemployment Fraud

A Georgia Democratic lawmaker faces charges for allegedly lying to secure unemployment benefits during the COVID-19 pandemic, as per a release from the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the Northern District of Georgia.

Representative Dexter L. Sharper reportedly claimed he had only one employer while seeking unemployment assistance from April to May 2020. However, it’s alleged he actually earned income from two to three different jobs every week. The press release outlines that Sharper was employed at the Georgia Statehouse, ran a party rental business, and also worked as a musician.

According to the announcement, Sharper applied for unemployment benefits while serving in the Georgia House of Representatives for District 177, which partly includes Lowndes County. His application stated he worked for Dexter Sharper Party Rentals for 40 hours a week over seven years, but claimed he hadn’t worked since March 13, 2020. To meet eligibility, he stated he wasn’t working or earning wages, was actively job hunting, and had never turned down work.

Contradicting his claims, the investigation suggests Sharper was actually working at least two, often three jobs each week. He received a minimum of $325 weekly from his role in the Georgia General Assembly. His party rental business was active and reportedly generated up to $2,231 weekly. Additionally, he earned around $275 each week from his music gigs.

Due to his initial false statements and 38 subsequent certifications, Sharper allegedly collected $13,825 in unemployment benefits that he was not entitled to.

U.S. Attorney Theodore S. Hertzberg remarked that during a time when many people in his community were struggling, Sharper purportedly pretended to be unemployed to gain benefits. He emphasized that dishonesty from government officials damages public trust and the integrity of elected bodies.

Sharper is the third member of the Georgia House of Representatives to face charges related to pandemic unemployment fraud. Two other Democratic lawmakers are also under investigation. In December, Representative Sharon Henderson was indicted on counts of government theft and making false statements. Last week, she was suspended by Governor Brian Kemp. Additionally, former Congresswoman Karen Bennett resigned shortly after pleading guilty to making a false statement.