WASHINGTON, D.C. – Ronald Allen, Jr., a 54-year-old resident of Washington, D.C., has pleaded guilty to charges of first-degree theft and making false statements. This plea is related to his fraudulent acquisition and misuse of $31,044 from a COVID-19 tenant assistance program. The announcement was made by U.S. Attorney Matthew M. Graves and Daniel W. Lucas, Inspector General for the District of Columbia.
During his plea hearing, Allen confessed to submitting fraudulent applications in July and September of 2021 to the Stronger Together by Assisting You (STAY DC) program. This program, initiated in 2021, aims to assist renters facing financial difficulties due to the COVID-19 pandemic by helping with rent and utility payments. Allen falsely claimed he had no income in 2020 and 2021 and that he lost his job due to the pandemic, despite having a steady income from various sources. As a result of these false claims, Allen received two checks totaling $31,044, funds he pledged to use for rent and utilities but instead spent on luxury items, travel, dining, and other personal indulgences. Allen has agreed to repay the full amount as part of his plea agreement.