A Democratic state lawmaker in Georgia has been indicted on fraud-related charges following a grand jury investigation, according to authorities. Court filings allege that state Rep. Dexter Sharper, who represents House District 177 in Lowndes County, submitted false information in connection with state-funded benefit programs.
Prosecutors say Sharper improperly received approximately $13,825 in unemployment benefits between 2020 and 2021. According to the indictment, he applied for benefits in April 2020, stating that he had stopped working at his business, Dexter Sharper Party Rental, in March of that year. Investigators allege that he continued to work during that period while repeatedly certifying that he was unemployed, had no income, and was actively seeking work.
The indictment includes multiple counts of fraud. Federal prosecutors allege that Sharper submitted 38 weekly benefit certifications containing false statements in order to continue receiving unemployment payments. Authorities contend that these actions occurred while he was employed and earning income, making him ineligible for the benefits he received.
In statements announcing the charges, officials emphasized the seriousness of the allegations, particularly given Sharper’s role as an elected official. The case will proceed through the judicial system, where Sharper will have the opportunity to respond to the charges. As with all criminal cases, the allegations remain unproven unless and until established in court.