Florida Congresswoman Pleads Not Guilty to Theft Charges

Rep. Sheila Cherfilus-McCormick accused of conspiring to steal $5 million in COVID-19 relief funds

Published on Feb. 4, 2026

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U.S. Rep. Sheila Cherfilus-McCormick of Florida has pleaded not guilty to charges that she conspired to steal $5 million in federal COVID-19 disaster funds. The congresswoman, who was not present for the arraignment, is facing 15 federal counts related to the alleged theft of funds that were overpaid to her family's health care company, Trinity Healthcare Services.

Why it matters

The case raises concerns about potential misuse of COVID-19 relief funds and the accountability of elected officials. As a member of Congress, Cherfilus-McCormick's actions could undermine public trust in government and the proper distribution of federal aid during emergencies.

The details

According to the federal indictment, prosecutors allege that within two months of receiving the $5 million in overpayments, more than $100,000 was spent on a 3-carat yellow diamond ring for Cherfilus-McCormick. The funds were reportedly distributed to various accounts, including those of friends and relatives, who then donated to the congresswoman's campaign.

  • In November 2022, Cherfilus-McCormick was arrested and then freed on a $60,000 bond.
  • On February 4, 2026, Cherfilus-McCormick formally pleaded not guilty to the charges during an arraignment in Miami federal court.

The players

Sheila Cherfilus-McCormick

A U.S. Representative from Florida's 20th District, who is accused of conspiring to steal $5 million in federal COVID-19 disaster funds.

William Barzee

The new attorney representing Cherfilus-McCormick, who entered the not guilty plea on her behalf.

Trinity Healthcare Services

The health care company owned by Cherfilus-McCormick's family, which received the overpayment of $5 million in COVID-19 funds.

Edwin Cherfilus

The brother of Congresswoman Cherfilus-McCormick, who requested $50,000 but the company mistakenly received $5 million.

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What they’re saying

“She's eager to get back to work. She's up in Washington right now fighting for her constituents, and her main focus is representing the people in her district.”

— William Barzee, Attorney for Cherfilus-McCormick (kbindependent.org)

“It's surprising that the DOJ (U.S. Department of Justice) would take on a case after it's been resolved and after there was an agreement to repay all of the funds that were improperly sent to her.”

— William Barzee, Attorney for Cherfilus-McCormick (kbindependent.org)

What’s next

The judge in the case will decide on Tuesday whether or not to allow Cherfilus-McCormick to remain free on bail while the case proceeds.

The takeaway

This case highlights the ongoing challenges in ensuring the proper use of federal disaster relief funds, as well as the need for robust oversight and accountability measures for elected officials entrusted with these resources.