UPDATE: Former state Representative Karen Bennett, D-Stone Mountain, is facing serious federal charges for alleged fraud related to COVID-19 assistance, making her the second Georgia lawmaker to be indicted in just one month. This urgent development comes as federal authorities ramp up investigations into misuse of Pandemic Unemployment Assistance funds.
Bennett, who resigned her seat effective December 31, 2025, pleaded not guilty on January 6, 2026, to accusations that she submitted false claims to secure $13,940 in benefits. Federal prosecutors allege that Bennett falsely claimed she could not operate her physical therapy business while quarantined at home, despite evidence suggesting her role was administrative and that she could have worked remotely.
The charge was formally filed by U.S. District Attorney Theodore S. Hertzberg, who is leading the investigation into fraudulent claims during the pandemic. Bennett was released on a $10,000 bond after her court appearance, adding to the growing scrutiny of state officials in connection with COVID-19 relief programs.
This latest indictment follows the case of Rep. Sharon Henderson, D-Covington, who pleaded not guilty on December 8, 2025, to similar charges of theft of government funds. Henderson has also been released on a $10,000 bond and remains listed as a state representative on the Georgia General Assembly website.
The implications of these charges are significant, raising questions about accountability and oversight of federal relief funds designed to assist individuals during the pandemic. As investigations continue, officials are urging the public to report any suspected fraud related to these critical assistance programs.
What happens next? Both Bennett and Henderson will face further legal proceedings as federal authorities continue to scrutinize the handling of COVID-19 aid in Georgia. The fallout from these cases could potentially reshape public trust in state leadership as the nation recovers from the pandemic’s impact.
Stay tuned as we provide updates on this developing story, which underscores the urgent need for integrity in the distribution of government relief funds during times of crisis.
