This FEMA Scam Went On for Too Long – Now It's Getting Rough for Him!

A high-ranking U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP) official in Michigan is facing serious charges for allegedly defrauding the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) and lying to federal investigators. The Department of Justice (DOJ) unsealed a criminal complaint on Wednesday against Serina Baker-Hill, a 55-year-old career employee at CBP. She is accused of misusing federal disaster relief funds after floods damaged her home in 2023.

Baker-Hill serves as the director of CBP’s Center for Excellence and Expertise in Automotive and Aerospace Engineering. Despite her leadership role, authorities claim she engaged in a fraudulent scheme to pocket FEMA aid meant for disaster victims.

FBI Calls It a Crackdown on Public Corruption

FBI Director Kash Patel highlighted the case as part of broader efforts to root out corruption. “Following efforts with our interagency partners, I can report that a career Director level employee at US Customs and Border Protection has been charged with allegedly attempting to defraud FEMA, as well as lying to federal agents,” Patel posted on X.

He emphasized that accountability remains a priority for federal law enforcement. “This is part of the new FBI’s renewed efforts to crack down on public corruption and deliver accountability for the American people. Justice will be done. Thanks to our partners @AGPamBondi @TheJusticeDept and our @FBIDetroit team for their work.”

FEMA Approved Disaster Aid After Devastating Floods

Michigan was hit by severe flooding in August 2023, prompting FEMA to approve a federal disaster declaration. This allowed affected residents, including Baker-Hill, to apply for financial assistance to recover from the damage.

According to the DOJ, Baker-Hill claimed her home was unlivable due to flood damage. A FEMA inspector who assessed the property confirmed that the basement sustained damage. Based on her claims, FEMA granted her assistance funds for repairs and two months of rental aid. The money was specifically designated for temporary housing and essential utilities.

TODAY: Following efforts with our interagency partners, I can report that a career Director level employee at US Customs and Border Protection has been charged with allegedly attempting to defraud FEMA, as well as lying to federal agents.

This is part of the new FBI’s renewed…

— FBI Director Kash Patel (@FBIDirectorKash) March 12, 2025

Investigators Say Money Was Misused

Authorities reviewed Baker-Hill’s bank records and found no transactions for rent, hotels, or utility payments that would justify the aid she received. Surveillance footage of her home reportedly showed that she and her husband continued living there even after receiving rental assistance.

Additionally, utility records did not reflect any significant drop in usage, a common indicator when a house is unoccupied. Investigators say these findings contradict her claim that she needed to relocate.

A CBP director in Michigan has been accused of defrauding FEMA and lying to federal agents. (CBP Field Operations/X)

Denial and Federal Charges

When questioned by FBI agents and officials from CBP’s Office of Professional Responsibility (OPR), Baker-Hill denied any wrongdoing. However, prosecutors believe the evidence tells a different story.

She now faces charges of defrauding FEMA and lying to federal agents—serious offenses that could lead to prison time if convicted.

A U.S. Customs and Border Protection patch on the uniform of a Rio Grande Valley sector chief patrol agent for the U.S. Border Patrol. (CBP)

As the case moves forward, it highlights the government’s intensified focus on holding public officials accountable. With fraud and corruption cases under heightened scrutiny, federal agencies are making it clear that abuse of taxpayer funds will not be tolerated.

More details on Baker-Hill’s case are expected to emerge as legal proceedings unfold.