WEST PALM BEACH, FL – Authorities are appealing to the public for help in tracking down Elaine Eskow, a woman from Palm Beach County, accused of a multi-million-dollar COVID-19 relief fraud. The FBI has labeled Eskow a fugitive following her alleged embezzlement of $34 million in relief funds.
According to federal agents, Eskow disappeared in June when she failed to attend a court hearing. Her indictment came just months after her release from jail on similar charges involving wire fraud.
Investigators claim Eskow, also known as Annie Palmer, led a sophisticated scheme that involved more than 90 fraudulent applications for pandemic relief funds. The operation allegedly spanned 18 months in 2020, with false data provided regarding employee counts, payrolls, and revenues.
Legal expert David Taras highlighted the gravity of the situation, stressing the intended purpose of the relief funds was to aid struggling businesses during the pandemic. “This was not meant for personal gain,” Taras remarked, emphasizing the potential impact on businesses that needed support.
Eskow is believed to have fled to Jamaica, where she originally hails from. She is distinguishable by tattoos on various parts of her body, including her wrist, stomach, shoulder, and back.
The FBI urges anyone with knowledge of Eskow’s whereabouts to contact them at 1-800-CALL-FBI. The case serves as a reminder of the ongoing fight against fraud in pandemic relief efforts.
The public is advised to remain vigilant and report any information that could assist in Eskow’s capture, as the search for justice continues.