FORT LAUDERDALE, Florida — A federal judge has revoked the U.S. citizenship of a South Florida man convicted of orchestrating a multimillion-dollar COVID-19 fraud scheme, according to the Justice Department.
Joff Stenn Wroy Philossaint, 25, was stripped of his citizenship after the court found he obtained it unlawfully by concealing his involvement in fraudulent activity during the naturalization process. Prosecutors said Philossaint participated in a scheme between April 2020 and May 2021 that involved submitting dozens of fraudulent loan applications tied to pandemic relief programs.
Authorities said the operation secured approximately $3.8 million in funds, with Philossaint personally receiving about $549,000 through loan proceeds and kickbacks. During a December 2020 naturalization interview, he allegedly denied involvement in criminal activity, despite evidence he was actively engaged in the fraud.
Philossaint was granted citizenship in February 2021 but was later charged and convicted on multiple counts, including conspiracy and unlawful procurement of citizenship. He was sentenced in 2023 to more than 12 years in federal prison.
Federal prosecutors said the revocation underscores that citizenship obtained through fraud can be rescinded through the courts.
Sources:
-
CBS News – MBFC Rating
Discover more from News Facts Network
Subscribe to get the latest posts sent to your email.
