Embattled Rep. Sheila Cherfilus-McCormick (D-FL) quietly entered a Miami federal courthouse Tuesday, posting bond as she confronts a sweeping indictment alleging she diverted millions in disaster relief funds. The congresswoman had surrendered to authorities earlier in the day and appeared in court shackled at the wrists, while her husband watched from the gallery looking visibly distressed.
Federal prosecutors accuse Cherfilus-McCormick of helping siphon $5 million in FEMA relief money through a family-owned company, with a portion of the funds allegedly funneled into her own congressional campaign. The 15-count indictment includes charges of theft of government funds, money laundering, straw donor schemes, and filing false tax returns. If convicted on all counts, she faces more than 50 years in prison and over $2 million in fines.
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Cherfilus-McCormick acknowledged the charges during her initial appearance before a federal judge. Afterward, her temporary attorney, Lauren Krasnoff of Markus & Ross, blasted the prosecution, arguing that recent cases show “this government is willing to charge and indict and arrest somebody without actual evidence.” Krasnoff also doubled down when pressed on comments suggesting Black lawmakers are being unfairly targeted.
A judge approved the congresswoman’s release on a $25,000 personal surety bond plus 5% of an additional $35,000 bond, allowing her to leave the courthouse after paying $1,750. She must surrender her personal passport but may retain her congressional one, and her travel is now limited to South Florida, Washington, D.C., Maryland, and the Eastern District of Virginia.
Krasnoff maintained her client’s innocence, telling reporters they intend to clear her name. Cherfilus-McCormick’s next court appearance is scheduled for December 29, when she will be formally arraigned and finalize her legal representation.[/read]